- 17 September, 2026
NAGERCOIL, September 17, 2026: More than 1,500 students joined folk artists, professional artists and cultural enthusiasts for Cultural Palette 2026, a three-day celebration of art, culture and heritage organised in the Diocese of Kottar from September 4 to 6.
The event was organised by the Kalari Folk Cultural Center and Art and Heritage Center of the Diocese of Kottar in collaboration with the National Biblical, Catechetical and Liturgical Centre (NBCLC), Bengaluru. It featured cultural competitions, an Artists’ Camp, artistic demonstrations, interactions with artists, cultural activities and a Painting Exhibition.
The programme was coordinated by Fr. A. Sahaya Belix, director of the Kalari Folk Cultural Center and Art and Heritage Center.
On September 4, the programme focused on folk arts and traditional cultural expressions. More than 500 children from schools and parishes participated in fancy dress, solo dance and group dance competitions. They were also introduced to various folk art forms and interacted with folk artists to learn about their traditions and cultural significance.
The National Artists’ Camp was also inaugurated, with participating artists creating live artworks on the theme, “Peace: In the Light of St. Francis of Assisi.”
On September 5, the programme focused on painting, creativity and opportunities in the field of art. More than 800 children took part in the Painting and Colouring Competition. Dr. K. Kavimani conducted a session on art education and career opportunities, introducing students to various possibilities for higher education, creative professions and art-based careers.
Students also interacted with professional artists and learned from their experiences, while the Artists’ Camp continued with live painting.
The September 6 celebration was held in the presence of Bishop Nazarene Soosai of Kottar, Fr. A. John Baptist, director of NBCLC, Bengaluru, Fr. T. John Rufus, vicar general, and Dr. Nalini of Vasan Eye Care.
Bishop Nazarene Soosai of Kottar honoured the participating artists by presenting them with the “Artistic Luminary 2026” Award in appreciation of their contribution to the celebration of art and culture. He also formally opened the Grand Painting Exhibition, featuring the artworks created during the Artists’ Camp.
A Tamil folk dance stories and colouring book, Panai Olai, authored by Fr. A. Sahaya Belix, was also launched. The book was launched by Fr. T. John Rufus, Vicar General, and seeks to introduce children to Tamil folk arts and cultural traditions through stories and colouring activities.
Winners of the various competitions received cash prizes, shields and certificates, while participating artists received appreciation certificates. Schools that took part in the festival were also acknowledged for their support and participation.
Visitors also enjoyed the Painting Exhibition, Live Caricature Corner, Clay Studio and Live Artists’ Painting Studio.
Cultural Palette 2026 thus became a celebration of art, culture, creativity and heritage, providing young people with opportunities to showcase their talents, discover traditional arts, interact with artists and explore possibilities in the field of art.
By Catholic Connect Reporter
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