For the children gathered around her, the patch of sand becomes their first writing book, and their fingers become pencils. Indira Amma, aged 85, from the state of Kerala introduces young students to the world of letters using a traditional method passed down through generations.
Over the last decade, she has reportedly been teaching children Malayalam, Hindi, English, and mathematics, employing this humble approach. Instead of starting with notebooks and pencils, she allows children to trace letters in the sand, helping them master the alphabet through tactile perception and practice.
Her method is based on the tradition of Kerala—Ezhuthiniruthu, a ceremony marking the beginning of a child's education. Traditionally associated with Vijayadashami, this ritual involves guiding children in tracing the first letters in rice or sand. This act symbolizes the start of their educational journey.
A sweet glimpse into this tradition is shown by Ashatti Ammumma, patiently teaching young children the Hindi alphabet at the English School Temple. As the children follow her, each letter becomes an opportunity to learn through practice guided by her gentle approach.
For small children, the ability to recognize and write letters requires patience and repetition. Tracing them in the sand offers a practical way to understand their shapes, allowing toddlers to practice each movement as they gain confidence.
The uniqueness of this approach lies in how it connects everyday learning with a tradition deeply rooted in Kerala's cultural heritage. While classrooms increasingly incorporate digital tools, this serves as a reminder that learning does not always have to begin with a screen or expensive resources.
Sometimes, a handful of sand, a person willing to guide a child's hand, and time are enough to allow them to learn at their own pace. Through this practice, Indira Amma helps preserve the traditional method of teaching while providing young children with a meaningful start to their educational lives.