In a heartwarming tribute to community spirit, a primary school near Valanchery in Malappuram has unveiled a powerful statue that embodies the selflessness displayed by the people during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Standing tall on a pedestal on the TRK AUP School campus at Vengad, ‘The Volunteer’, a cement sculpture of a man on a bicycle, serves as a haunting reminder of the countless unsung heroes who pedalled their way through challenges to lend a helping hand during the pandemic in 2020.
“No other campus in the country has paid such a tribute to COVID-19 heroes in my knowledge,” said school headmaster P.K. Subhash, who conceived the project.
Actor V.K. Sreeraman inaugurating the sculpture.
| Photo Credit:
SAKEER HUSSAIN
Sculptor C.P. Mohanan spent around seven months bringing to life the idea inspired by the community kitchen that operated at the school during the pandemic.
Though the kitchen functioned for 64 days, its impact still lingers. Dozens of volunteers had selflessly contributed to cooking and distributing food to those in need. The sculpture stands as a testament to their dedication and service.
The statue shows the masked volunteer cycling with two tiffin carriers in the front and a medicine box on the rear rack. The pandemic’s haunting moments like scenes of shuttered shops, hospital beds, ambulances and dedicated health workers are portrayed on the side walls of the pedestal. The names of those involved in cooking food were also etched on the pedestal.
When actor V.K. Sreeraman unveiled the sculpture on June 25 evening at TRK AUP School, Vengad.
| Photo Credit:
SAKEER HUSSAIN
A torrent of COVID-19 memories flooded the school campus when film actor and writer V.K. Sreeraman unveiled the statue last week. Mr. Sreeraman shared a video of the event on his Facebook page, expressing his enthusiasm and excitement at the statue.
“By installing this sculpture, we not only aim to pass on the lessons of the pandemic to our younger generation, but also to encourage our children to get involved in voluntary work and make a difference,” said Mr. Subhash.
School manager T.K. Susheela provided the funds needed for the sculpture. She also felicitated those who worked for the community kitchen for over two months.
Writer P.P. Ramachandran said the sculpture was a great reminder. “As we honour the countless volunteers who selflessly served during the pandemic, news is coming of Israeli gunfire targeting people waiting for food at a Gaza aid centre, highlighting the stark contrast between selfless service and senseless violence,” he added.