The municipal bus stand auditorium in Malappuram was packed for a new event at the State School Arts Festival. In 2013, V.G. Harikrishnan from GVHSS, Atholi impressed everyone singing the classic ghazal 'Pyar bhare do sharmile nain'. Since then, ghazal has grown popular at the festival. Notable singer Alka Ajith won first prize with her version of Ghulam Ali’s 'Hungama hai kyun barpa'. These days, the festival gives grades instead of ranks. Musicians like harmonium and tabla players, often professionals, now join on stage, adding charm but also costs for parents. The 64th festival had fine performances at St. Joseph’s Convent GHS, including K.C. Amrutha Varshini and Bevan Biju who chose famous Ghulam Ali ghazals. Amrutha shared, "I have always been a fan of Ghulam Ali." Audience members like Urdu teacher K.A. Fouzia praised the singers’ skill and Urdu diction. She said, "After Ghazal was introduced at the school festival more students have started learning at school." The festival continues to nurture young ghazal talent despite room for better sound quality.