Kalaburagi school reopens with bullock cart procession for students

Kalaburagi school reopens with bullock cart procession for students

Kalaburagi: Govt Model Primary School students of Honnakiranagi near Kalaburagi received a grand welcome as they were brought to school in 51 bullock carts on the first day of the academic year 2026-27 on Monday.

Around 400 children were taken to school in 51 bullock carts arranged by villagers of Honnakiranagi, witnessed by hundreds of locals, with Dollu, Sanadi, Baja and Bajantri performances adding to the festive atmosphere.

Students were served holige, bajji, brinjal curry, rice and sambar. The primary school offers classes up to eighth standard, and new admissions have already begun. Children, in a festive mood, expressed happiness at returning after the summer vacation, which they said had been extremely harsh.

They said reopening of schools brought relief, as they had felt bored staying at home during the heatwave and were glad to meet their friends again. The bullock cart procession began at Kanthi Basaveshwar Temple and continued up to the school, covering a distance of about 1 km.

As the children entered the classrooms, teachers and villagers showered flowers on them. The village echoed with the sound of drums and traditional instruments. The festive meal included holige, bajji, brinjal curry, rice and sambar, which the children relished.

Speaking to TOI, Govt Model Primary School headmaster Mallaiah Guttedar said the school has around 400 students despite the presence of a private school in the same village. He said admissions in the govt school were higher compared to the private institution, and more enrollments are under way. Parents were also invited and witnessed the reopening celebrations.