Meet Rasiya Panambulakal From Kerala: The Teacher Who Brought Gaza To The School Kalolsavam Stage

Kerala: As the State School Kalolsavam is underway in Thrissur, Rasiya Panambulakal, a retired Arabic teacher of Kottukkara PPM Higher Secondary School, has once again drawn attention for her contribution to Arabic mono acts and dramas rooted in strong social themes.

At this year’s Kalolsavam, Nazah M, a Class 10 student of the school, secured an A Grade in Arabic Mono Act with a performance scripted and practised under the guidance of Rasiya Panambulakal.

The mono act focused on the suffering of children in Gaza and the destruction of nature, particularly the loss of birds and their nests due to human greed and unchecked development.

In addition to the mono act, an Arabic drama titled “Anthum Kuramaa” (meaning Ningal Maanyanmar), written by Rasiya Panambulakal, was also staged at the Kalolsavam.

64th Kerala School Arts Festival (Kalolsavam) Begins Today In Thrissur

The drama portrayed hunger, war, and human indifference, using Gaza as its central reference point. Teachers associated with the event expressed confidence that the drama, too, would earn an A Grade.

Speaking to Timeline, Rasiya Panambulakal said her works are driven by concern for both humanity and nature. “We exploit nature without thinking about birds or their nests. We are selfish.”

“What is happening in Gaza reflects this mindset. Development should be for the good of nature and human life, not against it. It is important to speak about social issues through art. When ideas are presented creatively, they reach people more deeply and help them understand what is happening in the world.”

Kasaragod: Kumbala Toll Plaza Witnesses Massive Protest Against ‘Illegal Toll’ Collection

She added that she had written the mono-act script independently and trained student Nazah for several days to ensure the performance conveyed its intended message with clarity and sensitivity.

The drama was directed by Ausaf Ahsan, Arabic teacher at the same school. Students from Kottukkara PPM Higher Secondary School performed key roles in the production.

Rasiya Panambulakal has a long record of achievements at the State School Kalolsavam, with several of her works earning A Grades in previous years.

In 2024, she represented India at an International Talent Meet held at the Opera House in Egypt.

She has also won multiple awards, including Woman of the Year, Al Mahara Prathibha Award, Ishal Poonkuyil Award, and the Nation Builder Award.

Known for encouraging students to engage with contemporary issues, she continues to write and train students in Arabic mono acts, dramas, and narrative performances even after retirement.

Her works consistently reflect themes of social responsibility, environmental awareness, and human dignity.