Students should develop leadership qualities alongside their education. Education alone does not make a person complete. It is only through cultivating leadership skills that students can truly become well-rounded. This was stated by the Hon. Governor of the Northern Province, N. Vethanayahan.
The stage events of the Pudukkudiyaruppu Cultural Festival, jointly organized by the Pudukkudiyaruppu Divisional Secretariat and the Pudukkudiyaruppu Development Council, took place on Saturday morning – 18th October 2025, at Ponvizha Hall. The stage program was preceded by a vibrant parade featuring more than 40 cultural floats.
Speaking at the event, the Governor said, “When I served as the Mullaitivu District Secretary, your current Divisional Secretary, Mr. Vijayakumar, was the Assistant Commissioner of District Agriculture Development. He is a very capable individual. When he was appointed as the Divisional Secretary of Pudukkudiyiruppu, I had high expectations that he would bring positive changes to the area — and those changes are now taking place.
In the past, I received numerous complaints from Pudukkudiyiruppu, especially concerning land issues. Today, those complaints have disappeared. He is not only someone who effectively addresses the people’s concerns but also possesses outstanding leadership qualities.”
He has organized today’s cultural festival on a grand scale—far beyond what is typically expected of a Divisional Secretariat event. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to him and to everyone who worked alongside him to make this festival a success.
The customs passed down by our ancestors form the foundation of our culture, and it is our responsibility to pass them on to the next generation. Unfortunately, many of our traditional art forms are fading away. When we were children, stage plays were performed almost every week—but today, that is no longer the case.
Children and students today have fewer opportunities for meaningful entertainment. By engaging them in the arts or sports, we can help steer them away from mental distractions. This is also a powerful way to protect the younger generation from life-threatening dangers such as drug abuse and other harmful influences.
The Pudukkudiyiruppu area needs a cultural hall. I had tried for it when I was the district secretary. I was not successful then. I hope it will be available soon, said the Governor.
At this event, artists were honored with the Puthuvai kalaichudar Award and a book was released. Various artistic events were also held.
The Pudukkudiyiruppu area is in need of a cultural hall. I had made efforts to establish one during my time as District Secretary, but was not successful then. However, I hope it will become a reality soon,” said the Governor.
As part of the event, artists were honored with the Puthuvai Kalaichudar Award, and a book was also released. The celebration featured a variety of artistic performances, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage.
