Kerala Piravi Celebrations and Anti-Drug Awareness Programme Held at NIMS Medicity

The Women Empowerment Club, Literary Club, Fine Arts Club and Anti-Drug Committee of Noorul Islam College of Dental Sciences (NICDS), under NIMS Medicity, jointly organised a series of competitions and cultural programmes as part of the Kerala Piravi celebrations. Conducted under the theme “Lahari Vimuktha Navakeralam 3.0”, the initiative focused on encouraging creativity, literary expression, cultural participation and awareness about the importance of a drug-free society.

The programme welcomed entries from students of various institutions under the Noorul Islam Educational Trust. Participants included students from Noorul Islam Centre for Higher Education (NICHE), Noorul Islam College of Dental Sciences, Noorul Islam College of Nursing and the Radiology department. The activities provided a common platform for students from different academic backgrounds to demonstrate their talents and participate in Kerala Piravi celebrations.

Literary and Cultural Competitions

A range of competitions was organised as part of the programme, giving students opportunities to express their ideas and creative abilities. The events included essay writing, short story writing, elocution, Malayali Manga and other literary and cultural competitions. These activities encouraged students to engage with language, literature and cultural traditions while expressing their perspectives on social issues.

The entries were evaluated by a panel of judges comprising Dr. Letha, Professor, and Dr. Leeba Mary Joshua, Associate Professor, from Homeopathy Medical College, Nemom, along with Shri Pramod Payyannur, a renowned scriptwriter, film and theatre director, and Director of MFT at NICHE University. Prizes were presented to the winners in recognition of their performance and creative contributions.

Kerala Piravi Celebration and Inaugural Function

The concluding celebration was held on 2 November 2026 at the DNA Chamber, NIMS Medicity. The programme began with a prayer by Mrs. Sana Varma, followed by the welcome address delivered by Dr. Manjusha K.K., Principal of Noorul Islam College of Dental Sciences.

The presidential address was delivered by Dr. M.K.C. Nair, Director of NIMS Spectrum and CDRC. The event was formally inaugurated by Shri K. Muhammed Shafi, IPS, Principal of the Police Training College. In his inaugural address, he highlighted the importance of collective action in addressing substance abuse and encouraging the development of a drug-free society.

An important moment during the programme was the release of the handwritten magazine manuscript by Shri K. Muhammed Shafi, IPS. The release added a literary dimension to the celebrations and recognised the creative efforts of the participating students.

Felicitation and Cultural Presentation

The felicitation addresses were delivered by Shri Pramod Payyannur; Dr. Aneesh, Director of the Genomic Department; and Dr. Josephine Vinitha, Principal of Noorul Islam College of Nursing. Dr. Ambika S. delivered the vote of thanks, while Ms. Sneha Joppy coordinated the programme as its anchor.

The celebration concluded with the National Anthem, followed by the presentation of Thoofan Drama by police officials as part of the Thoofan Programme. The performance conveyed a message about the dangers of substance abuse and the importance of making responsible choices. It also reinforced the central theme of the celebrations by highlighting the need for awareness and collective efforts towards a drug-free society.

Promoting a Drug-Free and Culturally Aware Kerala

The Kerala Piravi celebration brought together students and faculty members from different institutions under the Noorul Islam Educational Trust. By combining literary competitions, cultural activities and anti-drug awareness initiatives, the programme offered students an opportunity to participate in activities that addressed both creative expression and social responsibility.

Through the “Lahari Vimuktha Navakeralam 3.0” theme, the event highlighted the importance of working towards a healthier and safer community. The celebration served as a reminder that educational institutions can play an active role in encouraging cultural awareness, responsible choices and a society free from substance abuse.