As part of the Kochi International Book Festival, a special programme titled “Leela Madhuram” was organised at SDKY Gurukula Vidyalaya on Wednesday, 16 September 2026 (in connection with the 99th birth anniversary of Dr. M. Leelavathi). The programme was organised with the objective of encouraging students to develop a regular reading habit and to nurture their knowledge, skills, concentration, self-confidence and self-respect through reading.
As part of the programme, a Students’ Book Exhibition was conducted. Students were encouraged to bring books they had already read, including fiction, non-fiction, biographies, autobiographies, and other literary works in English, Hindi, and Malayalam. The students were also expected to have a clear understanding of the books they presented and were given an opportunity to introduce the books and share their thoughts about them.
The Chief Guest, Mr. Santosh Varma, is a renowned lyricist, music director, and singer in Malayalam cinema. Mr. Somanath P., Secretary of the Kochi International Book Festival, also interacted with the children and encouraged them to cultivate the habit of reading. The programme was attended by the Principal of SDKY Gurukula Vidyalaya, Mrs. Aswathy N, Vice Principal, Mrs. Sindhu Ma’am and Mr. Hiren (UST), who were present on the stage along with the Chief Guest and other distinguished guests. Their presence and encouragement added great value to the programme.
