Fun and gala time for children, on the move

The Museum Theatre at Egmore was abuzz with students and families echoing lyrics and songs even after the event. It was the celebration of the fourth year of Art, Arattai Aarpattam 2011. NalandaWay and UNICEF together presented the 14-day festival that saw a huge crowd applauding the efforts taken by Sriram V Ayer, CEO and founder of NalandaWay. In today’s time, where interactive programmes for children are few and far between, Art, Arattai, Aarpattam is a welcome change for children. NalandaWay’s Art, Arattai and Aarpattam is a refreshing platform for performers and a wholesome entertainment for discerning audience. The festival was inaugurated with Anil Srinivasan’s  melodious music that enthralled the crowd. The concert started with Bharathiyar hits, rendered by playback singer Unni Krishnan that included Ninnai Charanadaithen and Kakkai Chiriginiley. The piano complimented his singing, taking all of us to  a musical journey. Next on stage was flautist Naveen Iyer, who also performed popular Bharatiyar hits like Theertha Kadaliniley and Chinna Chiri Killaiye along with Anil Srinivasan. Having earned the   crowd’s attention, there was no stopping the performers. Music filled the hall! And it didn’t stop there, Naresh Iyer, performed a medley of Bharatiyar songs along with his hits, Munbe Vaa (Jillenu Oru Kadhal) and Rooba Rooo, (Rang De Basanti). His unexpected on-stage composition that started with a fast tempo, involved not only families but also the students in an impromptu singing routine. The guests also obliged and the auditorium, which was packed to its capacity, went crazy for over an hour. The occasion also welcomed the book, Ei Akka Keladi, unveiled by Jayendra, film director. Last year, students across the state wrote 1,000 stories which were compiled and  made into a book explained Sriram Ayer. “The stories include inspirational stories that highlight the struggles of girl children and their victory over the adversaries,” added Ayer.The inaugural function was presided by Andrew Simkin, Consul General, American Consulate, Akila, UNICEF and Jayendra, director. The 14 -day festival will include art workshops, plays, musical performances, films and lecture demonstration for children, teachers and parents.