Thrissur: Malayalam superstar Mohanlal will grace the grand finale of the 64th State School Arts Festival as chief guest on Sunday, elevating Kerala's premier student cultural extravaganza. The valedictory ceremony at 4 p.m. will be inaugurated by Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan.
Thrissur hosts this year's festival, now in its dramatic final stretch with only eight competitions remaining for the Golden Cup. Kannur leads with 990 points, followed closely by host Thrissur (983), Palakkad (982), and Kozhikode (981). A few decisive performances could crown the champion right till the end.
Northern districts hold the top spots, but central and southern Kerala schools are mounting strong challenges. Festival officials predict the winner may emerge only in the closing moments amid fierce competition for every point.
Students from Wayanad's Vellarmala School, still healing from last year's devastating landslide, captivated audiences Saturday with their Vanchippattu (boat song) performance, a poignant symbol of recovery and spirit. Anticipation builds statewide as students, teachers, and families await the champions' announcement.
(Inputs from IANS)