VIII – Balar Chithirai Kalai Vizha
By The “Mylapore Trio” of Sri Sumukhi Rajasekharan Memorial Foundation
Report Date:28th May 2010

The “Mylapore Trio” of Sri Sumukhi Rajasekharan Memorial Foundation celebrated the Eighth “Balar Chithirai Kalai Vizha” – An Exclusive Childrens’ Tamil Festival in which more than 500 children & youth participated in various competitions. The Valedictory function was held on Sunday, 30th April 2010, at Sri Dakshinamurthy Auditorium, Mylapore, Chennai.

The highlight of this Utsav was Conferring of Titles & Awards - “PALKALAI VITTHAGI ” (Lifetime Achievement Award) on Dr. R.Jagadambika, Ph.D (Former Principal & HOD of History, Sri Sarada College for Women, Salem.) for her contribution to various fields including academics, administration and arts. Presented the Fourth Year “Patron - Smt. R. NAGAMMAL “SWARNA KALAS” ROLLING TROPHY” – Bharatha Kalalayam – Mylapore, Guru. Smt. Hemalatha Ramachandran for participating in large numbers. ‘Arungkalai Vitthagi’ Award was conferred on Kum. E.S. Sruthi Siva for winning laurels in various Fine Arts & Academic Arts.

Chief Guest - Dr. A. Chandrasekhar, Ph.D. (Professor Emeritus, Dept. of Indian History & Former HOD of History, I.C.E, University of Madras), Special Guest - Dr. S. Devaki, Former P.G. Professor & HOD Dept. of History, Vellalar College for Women, Erode, Guest of Honour - BOMBAY SISTERS. Smt. C. Lalitha distributed Various Prizes & Smt. Revathy Sankkaran presented Special Prizes for nearly about 150 participants. The guests lauded the efforts of the Trio & the Foundation in perpetuating our Tradition & Culture, especially in Mylapore. There was overwhelming response of more than 500 people as audience including Doyens, Connoisseurs of Art, children, parents, institutions and public at large.

The evening started with “Dhesa Pattru” a soul stirring Thematic programme of Music & Dance, based on old patriotic songs, Conceived, Directed & Executed by the Trio and presented by “Sakala Kala Valli” Smt. Revathy Sankkaran. Soul stirring music was rendered by the Foundation Children. The Stage was aesthetically set with traditional mats, chozhies, with the statue of MAHATMA GANDHI in black on centre stage with the National Flag as back drop. The statue was brought from Khadhi Gramodhyog, repaired and painted by the Trio, Smt Revathy Sankkaran, along with foundation children, under the guidance of Surendranath. A hand Charka & box Charka were brought from Thakkar Bapa Vidhyalaya and placed on stage for the audience to view – a new treat indeed. Three little girls were dressed up in Tri Colour and danced to an old popular tune. The Trio added that, they enjoyed doing it with dedication, commitment & self support, along with likeminded & service oriented parents, friends & well-wishers, who have joined them for the noble cause, in rendering physical & moral support - there by derive self satisfaction.