Thiruvananthapuram;A Valampiri Shankh (sacred conch shell) rising from the palm of a hand wearing bangles, which itself emerges from a half-open book...This evocative design has been the pride of the Kerala School Kalolsavam for decades now.

This year, the glittering 117-sovereign golden trophy is returning to the native place of its creator, 82-year-old Chirayinkeezhu Sreekandan Nair, an artist whose legacy shines as brightly as his masterpiece.

Sreekandan Nair, then an art teacher in the Department of Education, was entrusted with the creation of a unique trophy in 1986 following poet Vyloppilli Sreedhara Menon’s wish for a golden cup. “It was the poems that served as my guiding light as I designed this work of art,” recalls the artist, whose vivid memories remain undiminished by time.

Vyloppilli had conceived the idea after watching football winners receive a golden trophy at Maharaja’s College, Ernakulam. The then Education Minister, T M Jacob, championed the concept, pushing for its realisation.

Sreekandan Nair’s design went beyond aesthetics, embedding deep symbolism into the trophy. The conch shell on it signifies sound while the hand represents hard work with each of the seven bangles on it symbolising the seven musical ragas. The book embodies knowledge. Initially planned to use 101 sovereigns of gold, the completed work required 117 sovereigns.

Sreekandan Nair was not an unknown name when he was chosen to design the trophy. His innovative poetry painting - a style blending poetic expression with visual art, had already earned him recognition. Poet ONV Kurup’s tribute, “I have discovered the most peaceful moments of my life in the world of colours that Sreekandan created,” remains one of his most cherished accolades.

Having worked extensively in the newspaper industry, Sreekandan Nair’s paintings were widely popular. As an art teacher, he made a conscious effort to simplify art, making it accessible to the common man. Now, he spends his days in quiet contentment at his home in Thiruvananthapuram.

This year, the State School Arts Festival is being held in Sreekandan Nair’s town – a fact that has brought him joy but also left a bittersweet aftertaste. Despite the festival’s proximity, the artist has not been invited to the event. “The cup attains its true brilliance when it reaches the hands of the winners. Watching that moment is the greatest joy for me,” he said.