Closing ceremony of Kalaignar Centenary Summer Festival held at Javvadumalai

The closing ceremony of the Kalaignar Centenary Summer Festival was held on August 31 at Javvadumalai in Tiruvannamalai District. The event was presided over by Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly Deputy Speaker G Pichandy, with District Collector D Bhaskara Pandian in attendance. Assembly members MB Giri (Sengam) and PST Saravanan (Kalasappakkam) also participated in the celebrations.
Deputy Speaker G Pichandy highlighted the government's efforts to improve the lives of hill dwellers, including the consideration of establishing a government college in the Javvadumalai area. He praised the state's welfare schemes, such as the Artist Women’s Entitlement Fund, which provides ₹1,000 monthly to women, and other initiatives like the Vidiyal Payanam free bus service for women and the Pudumai Penn project for college students. He also mentioned the government's ongoing projects, including the provision of cell phone connections and protected drinking water tanks for every village in the hills.
District Collector D Bhaskara Pandian emphasised the festival's success, noting the informative exhibitions set up by various government departments showcasing state projects. The two-day event featured performances by schoolgirls, sports competitions, and awareness plays addressing issues such as counterfeit liquor, drug abuse, and early marriage.
Awards and certificates of appreciation were distributed to participants, including the Horticulture Department, which won first prize for its exhibition. The festival concluded with a dog show organised by the Animal Husbandry Department, recognising the best dogs based on breed and temperament. Local officials and representatives also attended the event, contributing to the festival's success.