The Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi have always been a grand canvas showcasing India’s military might and cultural diversity. However, the 2026 parade is set to hold a special significance for Kerala, as a 12-member student troupe from M.M. Higher Secondary School, Kozhikode, prepares to bring the ancient, rhythmic art of Kolkali to the national stage. This invitation from the Ministry of Culture is not just a performance opportunity; it is a historic milestone for the folk traditions of the Malabar region.
A Historic First for the ‘Thekkan’ Style
While Kolkali has been seen in various cultural festivals across India, this marks the first time a troupe specifically trained in the ‘Thekkan’ (southern) style of Kolkali has received a formal invitation from the Union government for the Republic Day celebrations. Under the expert guidance of renowned Kolkali artiste and folklore researcher Yasir Kurikkal, the students have spent months perfecting the intricate footwork and synchronized stick-clapping that define this thousand-year-old art form. The ‘Thekkan’ style is celebrated for its unique structural patterns and rhythmic variations, which distinguish it from other regional iterations.
The Journey from Malabar to Kartavya Path
The selection process for such a prestigious event is rigorous, and the invitation to the M.M. Higher Secondary School team underscores the high level of skill maintained by these young performers. Participating as part of a folklore fusion show on January 26, the team will stand alongside various other student groups from across the country. Their performance is expected to be a masterclass in precision, where the circular movements and accelerating tempo of the dancers symbolize the unity and shared energy of the Indian spirit.
Preserving a Thousand-Year-Old Legacy
Kolkali is more than just a dance; it is a living history of the Malabar coast, drawing influences from Kalaripayattu and local folk traditions. For the students of Kozhikode, this trip to the capital is a chance to act as cultural ambassadors, proving that traditional arts remain vibrant and relevant in the modern era. As they prepare to perform before the President, the Prime Minister, and a global audience, they carry with them the pride of Kerala’s folklore and the dedication of the masters who have kept the “sticks of rhythm” moving for centuries.
A Moment of Pride for Kerala
The local community in Kozhikode and the faculty at M.M. Higher Secondary School have expressed immense pride in the students’ achievement. As they head to New Delhi, the troupe serves as a reminder of the power of art to bridge the gap between small-town heritage and national recognition. When the first strikes of the wooden sticks echo through the cold Delhi air this January, it will be a heartbeat from Malabar resonating across the entire nation.