Beats of Heritage: Tribal Students Mark Chenda Melam Arangettam

Folkland, with the CSR support of Dorf Ketal, successfully completed an eight-month Chenda Melam training programme for students of APJ Abdul Kalam International Residential Tribal School, Attappadi. The valedictory programme was presided over by Mrs Uma Preman, with an introductory address by Mr P. J. James, and inaugurated by Dr V. Jayarajan, Chairman of Folkland, who highlighted the cultural significance of traditional percussion in connection with World Heritage Week (19–25 November 2025). The students’ Arangettam was held at Malleswaran Kovil, Chemmannur, a sacred centre for the Irula community. Fifteen students presented their debut Chenda Melam performance after receiving training from eminent percussionist Mr Abhijith, marking a proud milestone in their cultural journey.