Udupi: The newly formed Kerala Samajam (R) Udupi, an organisation established to unite and empower the Malayali community in Udupi, is set to host its inaugural Onam festival on Sunday, September 14, at Ammani Ramanna Shetty Hall, Udupi.

Addressing the press, Arun Kumar, President of Kerala Samajam (R) Udupi, highlighted that the organisation was founded to provide a common platform for Malayalees living in Udupi and to act as a collective voice for the community. The Samajam was formally inaugurated at the IYCI Hall in Kunjibettu earlier this year.

Governor of Goa to inaugurate celebrations

The grand Onam celebration will be formally inaugurated at 10:30 am by Shri P.S. Sreedharan Pillai, Governor of Goa, who will preside over the ceremony.

Several distinguished guests will grace the event, including:

  • MLA Yashpal Suvarna

  • Swaroop T.K., IAS, Deputy Commissioner of Udupi

  • Hariram Shankar, IPS, Superintendent of Police, Udupi

  • Dr. Sabu K.M., Professor, MAHE

  • Rajan Jacob, President, Suvarna Karnataka Kerala Samajam

    • Prominent film personalities such as Harish Kanaran, Vivek Gopan, and Seema G. Nair will attend as chief guests, lending star power to the celebration.

    Day begins with Pookkalam competition

    The festivities will start early in the morning at 8:30 am with a Pookkalam (floral carpet) competition, showcasing the artistic talents of Kerala Samajam members and adding colour to the occasion.

    Following this, a variety of cultural programmes will be presented by members of the Samajam, highlighting Kerala’s rich tradition of music, dance, and art.

    Traditional Onam feast

    At noon, attendees will be treated to a grand Onam Sadhya (feast), prepared under the leadership of Vinod Kumar’s team from Calicut. The multi-course vegetarian meal, served on banana leaves, is expected to be one of the highlights of the celebration.

    Entertainment and cultural showcases

    Post-lunch, a team of artists from the Malayalam film industry will entertain the audience with a wide variety of performances, including music, dance, mimicry, and comedy.

    In the evening, the Jayakerala Kalari Sangham will present a Kalari martial arts demonstration, offering a glimpse into Kerala’s ancient martial traditions.

    Blend of Onam and Janmashtami traditions

    Adding to the uniqueness of this year’s festival, the celebrations will also integrate elements of Sri Krishna Janmashtami, which coincides with Onam this year.

    Special attractions include:

    • Tiger dance (Huli Vesha)

  • Kerala-style Chenda Melam (traditional drum ensemble)

  • Grand Mahabali (Maveli) procession

    • These events are expected to create a vibrant atmosphere that blends traditions from both Karnataka and Kerala.

    Strong leadership team behind the event

    Alongside President Arun Kumar, the Kerala Samajam’s office-bearers include:

    • S. Vasanth Kumar, Vice President

  • Prashanth Kumar, Secretary

  • Ramesh E.P., Treasurer

  • Pradeep G., Joint Secretary

  • Prof. Dr. Binsi M. George, Onam Committee Chairman & PRO

    • Together, they emphasised that the first Onam festival by Kerala Samajam (R) Udupi is not just a cultural celebration but also a step towards fostering community bonding and inclusivity.

    Conclusion

    UDUPI: The inaugural Onam celebration by Kerala Samajam (R) Udupi is poised to become a landmark cultural event for the Malayali community in the coastal town. With a mix of traditional festivities, cultural performances, a sumptuous feast, and the participation of prominent dignitaries and film stars, the event promises to mark a memorable beginning for the organisation.