Communities are finding interesting ways to get the younger generation to be rooted to traditions and get them acquainted with the rich literary treasures of the state. One such initiative was recently undertaken by the New Bombay Keraleeya Samaj in Nerul (NBKS).
The organisation recently hosted a 2 days Malayalam camp for the children. The samajam is a socio-cultural body that works for the welfare of the Malayalees residing in and around Navi Mumbai.
The activity going on since the year 1999 is aimed at inculcating interest among the next generation love for Malayalam language, awareness about the state’s literature and cultural activities. “This is a small attempt at getting the children acquainted with the traditional songs and age old stories passed on from generations in Kerala. One of the best aspects of the camp is that it’s not just children who are eager to participate, even their parents willingly stay over to relive their childhood memories,” said trustee KT Nair.
The event conducted last week saw participation by nearly 55 children from the age group 5 onwards.
The two day camp comprised recitation of traditional songs, nursery rhymes in addition to storytelling, staging of skits and dances as well as entertaining activities like magic show and reciting of literary poems. A bonfire was lit within the Samajam ground surrounding it where the events were conducted.
Two Teachers namely Balachandran Kottodi and M.B Kunjikrishnan from Kerala conducted two days camp. Adding the homely feel to the camp was the cooking of food by the parents staying over. “ The camp had become more like a family get together with kids observing and learning from the adults about the traditional ways of living in Kerala and elders had the opportunity to share their memories when they lived in Kerala,” said Nair.
