Be it Hindus or Christians, thousands of children in Kerala will write their first letters on a plate of rice as they are initiated into the world of learning on the auspicious occasion of Vijayadasami on Today at temples, churches and schools.

Called Vidyarambham, what started off as a ritual among Hindus has become a popular custom followed by churches as well to initiate children into learning on Vijayadasami day.

The day is considered auspicious for learning and in many places across Kerala, the child’s parents, eminent litterateurs, teachers and even politicians hold the hands of the tiny tots and help them write Malayalam letters on a plate of rice.

While Hindus write ‘hari sree Ganapathaye namaha’ in praise of Lord Ganesha, Christians write ‘sree Yesu mishihaye namaha’, hailing Jesus Christ. Then using a gold ring, a Malayalam word is written on the child’s tongue.

Maximum crowds are expected at Thunachan Paramabu near Thrissur, the home of Malayalam litterateur Thunchathu Ezhuthachan. Over 5,000 children are likely to take part in the ceremony held there.