Colours of Kerala at Onam celebration

LUCKNOW: Kerala’s rich cultural heritage came alive in the city on Sunday when Malayalees settled across the city celebrated Onam— the harvest festival of Kerala— at CMS auditorium, Gomtinagar with much fanfare. Organized by Kerala Samajam,Lucknow, the event was marked by several cultural and social activities.
The socio-cultural fest commenced with Rangapooja, a traditional dance praising Goddess Saraswati followed by Maveli Varavelppu folk dance performed to welcome King Mahabali.It is believed that the legendary king comes to meet his followers on Onam which marks the opening month of Chingam of Malyalam era. According to Keralite customs, the entrance of the auditorium and stage were beautifully decorated with Pookkalam- rangoli made with colourful flowers.
Ladies clad in kasav saris (off-white saris with golden border) performed ‘Kaikottikali’, the traditional clap dance of Kerala with much poise and gaiety. Besides, the audience were enthralled by other performances which included Bharatnatyam, semi-classical dances, flute rendition followed by a scintillating musical concert.
“Besides bringing in a lot of merriment, Keralites residing in the city get an opportunity to meet each other,” said Vasu Chandran, a member of the audience. To commemorate the event, members of Kerala Samajan released their annual souvenir. The day’s activity ended with sumptuous traditional ‘Onasadya’ meal served on banana leaves.