Celebrating the tradition with gusto

1200 celebrate Onam with sumptuous traditional feast, Onasadhya at Bowenpally

Onam arrived a week in advance in the twin cities. Nair Service Society, as usual, was the first organisation to celebrate Onam with all festivities and a sumptuous traditional feast (Onasadya) at Mahendra Reddy Gardens, Bowenpally. The Nair family members, more than 1,000, were welcomed with the 'Onapookkalam' arranged by Joy Alukkas. Popular film and TV actor Sharat, the chief guest, was received in Kerala traditional style. Sharat who inaugurated the festivities said that he was thrilled to see the congregation of so many Keralites and their enthusiasm in celebrating Onam at home, away from home. He also lauded the service activities of the NSS particularly honouring elders and providing educational assistance and scholarships to the needy.

The cultural show started with the traditional Kaikottikkali and folk dance by NSKK High School students. The comedy show, skit and Ganamela by the Asianet Comedy Super Stars was the highlight of the day. Their four hour show was scintillating and the audience lapped up every item with repeated applause. Chief Guest, Sharat also performed on the stage with his dance and songs. The Onam traditional feast with about 16 delicacies including two prathamans served on the plantain leaves was relished by about 1200 people. Six elders aged over 70 years (karanavars) were honoured and educational scholarships and educational assistance were distributed to the meritorious students.