Blind hatred towards Bharatiya customs, rituals, and way of life remains the ideological lifeline of communists. As Bharat reclaims its identity and asserts its cultural pride, anti-Hindu elements are growing increasingly intolerant. So much so, that even the time-honoured Gurupooja, observed with reverence across the country, has become a point of contention for the Kerala Education Minister. The washing of retired teachers’ feet by students, a symbolic gesture of gratitude rooted in mutual respect and the sacred Guru-Shishya tradition, has now been branded as ‘anti-social’. Orders have been issued to report on the practice, as if it were a crime.
On July 12, Kerala General Education Minister V. Sivankutty expressed “shock” at reports of Gurupooja being conducted in two CBSE schools in the state, in observance of Vyasa Poornima. His primary objection was to the practice of padapooja, students washing the feet of retired teachers, as part of the celebration. He condemned the act, calling it undemocratic and regressive, despite its deep cultural and spiritual significance.
The schools in question, affiliated with Bharatiya Vidya Niketan, the Kerala chapter of Vidya Bharati, held the rituals in Kasaragod and Mavelikkara. Gurupooja, marked on July 10 to honour Sage Vyasa and the Guru tradition, was observed as per long-standing Hindu customs. Yet, Sivankutty’s criticism suggested that such rituals instil a “slave mentality” and “undermine the basic goals of education”.
“The government views such practices with utmost seriousness,” he said, threatening strict action against any educational institution, regardless of syllabus, that does not conform to the Right to Education Act and related regulations. He even went so far as to claim that Gurupooja rituals are not part of Bharatiya or Kerala culture and warned that those found ‘guilty’ would face consequences. The Director of Public Instructions has been directed to submit a report on the incident within a week.
Predictably, the minister’s stance was echoed by the SFI, the student wing of the CPI(M), which called the event “uncivilised” and accused it of promoting “Chaturvarnya”. Not to be left behind, the AISF—student wing of the CPI—also condemned Gurupooja and Padapooja.
Observers, however, interpret this uproar as yet another attempt by the Left to undermine Bharat’s cultural roots and nationalist ethos. It is seen as part of a broader campaign to promote indiscipline and chaos within educational institutions, thereby cutting children off from their civilisational identity. A disciplined student life grounded in Bharatiya values is seen as a threat to Leftist influence, especially after recent unrest in Kerala’s universities.
In contrast, Kerala Governor Rajendra Viswanath Arlekar defended the Gurupooja ritual, offering a rational and cultural perspective. Addressing the Dakshin Bharat Mahasabha of Balagokulam, a cultural organisation for children, the Governor asserted that Gurupooja is intrinsic to our tradition. “According to Bharatiya culture, the Guru is always respected. I do not see any controversy in it,” he said, questioning the motives of those who object to such practices.
Hon’ble Governor Shri Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar attended the Golden Jubilee Celebration and the Annual State Meeting of Balagokulam (Southern Region) as the Chief Guest at Balaramapuram, Thiruvananthapuram. pic.twitter.com/VvF3RbWWD2
— Kerala Governor (@KeralaGovernor) July 13, 2025
This latest controversy has exposed the ideological fault lines in Kerala’s education system. While one side seeks to protect and revive ancient traditions that foster discipline and respect, the other appears determined to uproot them, viewing cultural pride and reverence for teachers as obstacles to their political agenda.
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