Thiruvananthapuram: The 63rd Kerala School Kalolsavam concluded in dramatic fashion as five-time champions Thrissur reclaimed the coveted trophy after a 26-year hiatus. Thrissur last secured the title in 1999.

In a nail-biting finish, Thrissur emerged victorious with 1,008 points, narrowly edging out Palakkad, which missed the top spot by just one point. Defending champions Kannur secured third place with 1,003 points. Thrissur had previously won the golden trophy in 1994, 1996, and 1999.

Points tally of districts:

• Thrissur – 1008
• Palakkad – 1007
• Kannur – 1003
• Kozhikode – 1000
• Ernakulam – 980
• Malappuram – 980
• Kollam – 964
• Thiruvananthapuram – 957
• Alappuzha – 953
• Kottayam – 924
• Kasaragod – 913
• Wayanad – 895
• Pathanamthitta – 848
• Idukki – 817

Top schools
In the school category, BSS Gurukulam Higher Secondary School, Alathur, Palakkad, topped the list with 171 points. Vazhuthacaud Carmel Higher Secondary School took second place with 116 points, while Mananthavady MGMMHSS finished third with 106 points.

Valedictory session
The valedictory function, held at the Central Stadium, marked a grand conclusion to the festival. Opposition Leader V D Satheesan inaugurated the closing ceremony, which featured actors Tovino Thomas and Asif Ali as special guests. Education Minister V Sivankutty presented the golden trophy to the winners and announced the media awards.

The event also honoured notable contributors, including Chirayinkeezh Sreekandan Nair, the designer of the golden trophy, and Pazhayidom Mohanan Namboothiri, who led the festival kitchen. Civil Supplies Minister G R Anil presided over the function, joined by the Speaker and several state cabinet ministers.

A proud moment for Kerala: Satheesan
Opposition Leader V D Satheesan lauded the festival, calling it a source of pride for Kerala. “The state school arts festival is something Kerala can proudly present to the world,” he said, adding that participating in the festival made him feel ten years younger. Satheesan congratulated Education Minister Sivankutty for steering the event to a successful conclusion.

Celebrating creativity
“Cinema gave me this platform, something I could never achieve during my school days, as I never participated in arts festivals,” actor Asif Ali said while expressing gratitude for the opportunity to address the massive audience.

Meanwhile, actor Tovino Thomas highlighted the importance of art in life, remarking, “Creative skills and compassion help us live happily. While art may not be everyone’s profession, it’s essential to hold onto it throughout life.” Tovino also noted, with a smile, that he wore a black shirt and white mundu at his fans’ request.