What is the Kerala School Youth Festival?

It is a large-scale cultural event for students, showcasing music, dance, drama, and folk arts, running since 1956-57.

Why is there a debate about the Kerala Youth Festival's impact?

Concerns exist that the festival has become more about academic grace marks and coaching than genuine artistic development, with few participants pursuing art long-term.

How much money is invested in the Kerala Youth Festival?

Crores of rupees are invested annually by the government, sponsors, and parents, with some families spending up to five lakhs per child.

Home / Education / Millions Spent, Few Artists Emerge: Kerala's Youth Fest Dilemma

Millions Spent, Few Artists Emerge: Kerala's Youth Fest Dilemma

17 Jan

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Summary

Festival started modestly in 1956-57, now involves 1.5 lakh students.
Parents spend lakhs, fueling a parallel 'coaching factory' industry.
Grace marks for grades often overshadow intrinsic artistic value.

Millions Spent, Few Artists Emerge: Kerala's Youth Fest Dilemma

The Kerala School Youth Festival, initiated in 1956-57, has evolved into a vast cultural arena involving 1.5 lakh students across numerous competition categories. While providing a platform for diverse artistic traditions, a fundamental question persists about its impact on Kerala's artistic landscape.

Despite significant government and parental investment, with some families spending up to five lakhs for a child's preparation, only a small percentage of participants continue artistic pursuits post-school. This investment fuels a significant 'coaching factory' industry, akin to competitive exam centers.

The system's reliance on grace marks for academic advancement often eclipses the intrinsic value of art. Stakeholders suggest a comprehensive evaluation is overdue, advocating for mechanisms to nurture talent beyond school and to re-center the festival on student growth rather than mere organizational achievement.