Ashqar, a teacher from Areekode in Kerala’s Malappuram district, is teaching at a school run by Sunbird Trust in Shi Yomi, Arunachal Pradesh, where he has sought to introduce students to Kerala’s culture alongside their educational experiences.
A video of students performing to Malayalam songs during an Onam celebration was shared by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, bringing wider attention to the initiative. In a Teachers’ Day feature published on September 5, 2026, Ashqar spoke about his decision to teach outside Kerala, the respect educators receive from local communities, and his concern that the profession needs more committed teachers. His experience highlights how education and cultural exchange can help people from different regions connect.
Bringing Kerala’s Culture To The Classroom
Ashqar’s work in Arunachal Pradesh goes beyond conventional classroom teaching. Originally from Areekode in Malappuram district, he teaches at a school run by Sunbird Trust in Shi Yomi district. His efforts to introduce elements of Kerala’s culture to students came into the spotlight after a video of children dancing to Malayalam songs during an Onam celebration attracted wider attention.
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju also shared the video, helping bring the school’s celebration to a broader audience. According to Ashqar, the idea began as a suggestion to fellow teachers, and he did not expect the event to receive so much attention. The school organised the celebration through committees, with responsibilities distributed among staff members.
Flowers available locally were used to create a pookkalam, traditional clothes were purchased online, and an Onam sadya was prepared. The celebration recreated elements of the festival while giving students an opportunity to experience a tradition associated with another part of India. The gathering offered an example of how cultural activities can create shared experiences among people from different backgrounds.
Choosing A Different Teaching Journey
Ashqar did not leave Kerala simply because he could not find a teaching job in his home state. While pursuing his Master of Education degree in Shillong, Meghalaya, he became aware of opportunities to work in teaching through the social sector. He was interested in teaching outside Kerala and began exploring opportunities after completing his studies. Organisations such as Sunbird Trust offered a way to pursue that interest while working with students in a different regional and cultural setting. Ashqar also described the relationship between teachers and local communities in Arunachal Pradesh.
He said residents often support educators by bringing food supplies and, during colder months, firewood. In his experience, the community makes an effort to care for teachers and recognises their role in society. His observations offer a perspective on how the relationship between schools and local communities can extend beyond the classroom. Ashqar also raised concerns about the teaching profession in Kerala, particularly the low salaries offered in some private schools.
He noted that many people continue to enter teaching, but questioned whether the profession has enough genuinely committed and capable educators. In his view, treating teaching as an easy job or choosing it only when other employment is unavailable can affect the quality of education. He encouraged aspiring teachers to consider opportunities beyond their home state, including positions offered by non-governmental organisations working in education.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Ashqar’s journey shows how education can bridge cultural differences and foster mutual respect. By introducing students in the North East to traditions from Kerala, he demonstrates how cultural exchange can help children appreciate India’s diversity and learn from one another. His experience also highlights the importance of valuing teachers through fair pay, professional respect and adequate support.
Education goes beyond textbooks and examinations; it also builds empathy, understanding and a sense of belonging. When teachers embrace different cultures, classrooms can become spaces where diversity brings people closer rather than setting them apart.
How can schools across India make cultural exchange a meaningful part of children’s education and help nurture greater understanding among communities?
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