From The Rice Bowl To God’s Own Country: An Artistic Journey Of Integration

The Art Integrated Project exhibition, held on January 30th, 2026, was a vibrant celebration of India’s diversity, focusing on the unique cultural landscapes of Chhattisgarh and Kerala. Under the esteemed guidance of Principal Dr. B. Nagaraja Naik, students from Classes 1 to 8 transformed their academic learning into a lived experience. The event served as a bridge between the “Rice Bowl of India” and “God’s Own Country,” showcasing how art can seamlessly integrate geography, language, and history into a colorful tapestry of student achievement.
The junior classes brought the spirit of these states to life through sensory and linguistic immersion. Class 1 hosted a “Feast of the States,” where students prepared and shared traditional recipes, fostering a sense of community through food. Following them, Class 2 students captivated the audience by dressing in authentic costumes—ranging from Kerala’s elegant white-and-gold Kasavu to Chhattisgarh’s vibrant tribal wear—and even showcased their linguistic skills by speaking in the native languages of both regions. Class 3 and 4 added to the visual splendor by creating detailed collages and paragraphs that captured the breathtaking flora, fauna, and scenic beauty of the two states.
As the exhibition progressed to the middle school levels, the projects shifted toward intricate craftsmanship and comparative analysis. Class 5 students displayed remarkable skill by building models of traditional tribal houses and crafting elaborate masks representing Kathakali and Chhattisgarhi folk traditions. Meanwhile, Class 6 delved into the world of textiles, presenting a sophisticated comparison between the handlooms of the south and the famous Kosa silk of the heartland. These projects highlighted the students’ ability to analyze and appreciate the fine details that define a region’s identity.
The senior participants of Class 7 and 8 provided a grand finale with their creative interpretations of local resources and rhythms. Class 7 designed stunning Rangolis using a unique medium: the various grains of Chhattisgarh and the aromatic spices of Kerala. Class 8 concluded the journey by crafting models of musical instruments, representing the rhythmic soul of both cultures. Dr. B. Nagaraja Naik, who chaired the program, expressed his immense pride in the students’ performance, noting that the versatility and dedication shown by every class truly brought the “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat” spirit to the heart of the school.