Malayalis in city come together for Onam festival

NAVI

MUMBAI: The Malayali community in the city can look forward to more celebrations and cultural events, as the 10-day Onam festival culminates on September 14.

Nerul

Nair Seva Samaj

will organize a grand cultural fest on October 2 at Devadiga Bhavan. Kairali Cultural and Educational Association in Airoli, a node with a large Malayali population, will celebrate the event in November. There will be a Pookala Malsaram competition for the largest floral rangoli for women along with folk and classical dance recitals, said association president,

R C Pillai

.

During the 10-day carnival, the city Malayalis have welcomed their mighty king

Mahabali

during his annual visit, marked the harvest festival, held cultural programmes and feasts. Currently, preparations are on to hold more classical music and dance recitals and rangoli- making events.

“Onam celebrations last for 4 to 10 days. Atham or day 1 and Thiruvonam, the tenth day, are the most important. Celebrations have begun from September 4, on the day of Atham,” said Ravindran Nair, from the Ghansoli Malayali Samajam.

New Bombay Keraleeya Samaj, the oldest Malayali association in the city, held an event at their premises in sector 5, Nerul on September 4. “Since Onam is celebrated with one’s family and loved ones, we choose a date to organize a get-together at the convenience of the members,” said K T Nair of the samaj.

The pulsating drum beats of the

Chenda Melan

players, Pookala Malsaram events, cultural events marked Onam festival in the city. A fulsome Onasadya meal, comprising 22 Malayali dishes, wrapped up celebrations at most venues.
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