Kerala engineer-cum-panchayat member designs chic anganwadi, takes internet by storm

Malappuram: A Kerala anganwadi with snazzy interiors and eye-popping design has caused quite a flutter on social media. At first glance, it could well be mistaken for an upscale service apartment.

The walls of the newly built anganwadi in Chiyyannur, Alamkode panchayat in Malappuram, depart from the usual cartoon-filled décor. Instead of Tom and Jerry, Dakini or Dora, the centre greets children with soothing pastel shades, ample natural light, fish tanks and a clutter-free aesthetic.

Photos and videos of the anganwadi have garnered over four million views for its modern, contemporary design. The 1,300 sq ft, fully air-conditioned building stands on just three cents of land.

The facility includes a dedicated play area, modular kitchen, television, Wi-Fi connectivity, cushioned seating and contemporary interiors. It cost around ₹25 lakh, with an additional ₹3 lakh mobilised from the panchayat for interiors and equipment.

The project was a key election promise of Chiyyanur ward member Abdul Majeed T A, who personally designed the building. A B.Tech instrumentation graduate, Majeed described the project as both a priority and a challenge. “The development of this anganwadi was part of our election manifesto. The old building, with asbestos roofing, had fallen into a state of disrepair. Many said such a transformation was impossible. But we made it possible,” Majeed said.

The project fund was allocated by Malappuram district panchayat member Arifa Nasar. Initially, ₹15 lakh was sanctioned. “We first planned to complete the first phase within this budget and source the remaining funds later. However, the member later sanctioned an additional ₹10 lakh, enabling us to finish the project in one go,” Majeed said.

Majeed opted for UPVC construction and Teflon glass windows, a choice that initially drew criticism for potential safety risks around children. He defended the decision, saying, “Children today are used to such environments. They visit malls frequently and do not damage these installations.” The design team, supported by the panchayat, engineering department, ICDS (Integrated Child Development Society) supervisor Sulekha Bhanu and overseer Sajna Binil, aimed to create a space that reflected modern sensibilities while retaining a Kerala touch.

Most anganwadis in the state have brightly painted walls, plastic furniture and limited facilities. In contrast, the Chiyyanur centre has matte-finish walls, cushioned sofas instead of benches, and a hygienic, plastic-free kitchen. Food items are stored in stainless steel containers and glass jars, replacing the usual plastic storage.

“The new generation does not connect with old cartoon characters painted on the walls. Their interests are different, and our facilities should reflect that,” Majeed said. The introduction of a modular kitchen was another major upgrade. “Hygiene has always been an issue in many anganwadis. With proper storage and cooking facilities, this centre ensures a clean, safe environment for children,” he added.

Currently, the anganwadi currently serves 23 children. Officials emphasise that anganwadis are not strictly classrooms but spaces for interaction, play and early socialisation. With soft seating, ample play areas and a calm interior palette, the new centre departs from the usual concept of an anganwadi. “We wanted to deliver a premium building — modern, contemporary and distinctly Keralite,” Majeed said.