Beyond the textbook: Why an exhibition on Constitution in Keralam is drawing young minds

Students attending the exhibition on the Constitution at Centenary Park, Thalassery, in Kannur district of Keralam. | Photo Credit: special arrangement

For many children, the Constitution may sound like a subject confined to textbooks and classrooms. But at Centenary Park, near the Thalassery District and Sessions Court, in Kannur, Keralam, it has become something to see, explore and ask questions about.

The Constitution Exhibition and Public Debate, organised as part of the 15th State Conference of All India Lawyers Union, is drawing visitors from different sections of society, particularly children and students.

Spread across around 120 slides, the exhibition traces the making and evolution of India’s Constitution, the contributions of national leaders and lesser-known personalities, Fundamental Rights and Duties, important constitutional provisions and landmark Supreme Court judgments from the early years of the Constitution through 2026. Lawyers and students explain the displays to visitors.

A version of the Constitution of India displayed at the exhibition | Photo Credit: special arrangement

The exhibition was conceived to strengthen constitutional literacy at a time when the need to understand and protect the Constitution has become particularly important, says A.N. Shamseer, chairman of the organising committee and former Keralam Assembly Speaker.

“Constitutional literacy is essential today. The exhibition is also a form of protest — the message is that the Constitution must be protected,” he told The Hindu.