Rising from the Wilderness: How Aruvappulam Panchayat Built a Dream Turf from Scrubland.

In Aruvappulam, Pathanamthitta, Kerala, a remarkable transformation is underway—a story that speaks to the power of persistence, community, and young voices.

From Overgrown Land to Youth Football Turf

Once an overgrown, tangled ground where scrub and grass reclaimed every inch, the local children dared to dream. They approached the Panchayat countless times, pleading for the simple gift of a clean field to play football. Clearing the land didn’t hold—the unwanted greenery returned swiftly every time. On the edge of this neglected ground stood a library and an Ayurveda hospital—whose windows trembled with every stray cricket ball. The children, the librarians, and local leaders raised their concerns loudly. Among them emerged a bold idea—"Why not build a turf?" And the Panchayat listened.

Overcoming Resistance to Turn a Dream into Reality

Building the turf from Panchayat funds didn’t come without challenges. Initial resistance echoed loudly: “We can’t spend such lakhs on just a turf.” Critics cited possible misuse of funds and even accused the project organizers of corruption. The matter went all the way to the Ombudsman and even the High Court—yet every inquiry found no wrongdoing. Through every hurdle, Panchayat President Reshma Mariam Roy and her team persevered.

A Dream Delivered for Children And Everyone

Finally, with ₹70 lakh invested, Aruvappulam unveiled a 40m x 28m football turf at the Panchayat grounds in Kallellick. Equipped with floodlights, CCTV surveillance, public walkways, restrooms, and plans for a child-friendly corner, the facility is designed for everyone. Minister V. Abdurahman inaugurated it, marking it as the first self-funded township-level turf in Pathanamthitta district.

Why It Matters

• Youth-Led Vision: This grassroots win was sparked by the children themselves—speaking up, dreaming big, and inspiring action.

• Accountability in Governance: Opposition and legal scrutiny stood before execution, but transparency and resolve shone through.

• Community-Centric Infrastructure: The turf didn’t just benefit players, it stood as a safeguarded, inclusive communal space.

Connecting Aruvappulam’s Story to Football Creatives’ Mission

At Football Creatives, our core belief resonates deeply with the Aruvappulam story:

• “Organisers are heroes.” Just like Reshma and her Panchayat team stepped up for the kids.

• “Everyone can play a part.” Even the seemingly impossible,building turf from scratch,is achievable with dedication.

• “Small steps, consistent action—transform entire communities.” One turf. One village. One movement at a time.

Build Your Football Village

Inspired by the youth of Aruvappulam, here’s how Football Creatives invites you to take part:

• Start small organise a football event in your town, village, or school.

• Give kids a safe space to play  even if it’s just a cleared patch of ground or borrowed field.

• Take one step at a time over time, you could build your football turf, your team, your village.

Together, with vision, grit, and community, we’re not just creating football grounds ,we’re shaping futures.

Ready to start? Let’s build your football village,one pitch at a time.