Kerala Samajam celebrates Onam with grand festivities in Jamshedpur

Jamshedpur, September 29: The Kerala Samajam in Jamshedpur came alive with joy and vibrant festivities as the Malayalee community celebrated the 83rd Onam with great enthusiasm on Sunday, September 29. The event showcased the rich culture and traditions of Kerala, drawing participation from numerous residents.

The celebrations featured a flower decoration competition called ‘Pookala Matsaram,’ where teams created intricate rangolis using flower petals. Traditional Kerala folk songs, accompanied by rhythmic drum beats, added to the festive atmosphere. Popular dances like ‘Kaikkottikali,’ performed gracefully by women, and the exciting game of ‘Uriyadi,’ where participants attempted to break a swinging earthen pot, were highlights of the day.

In addition to these, the event included other cultural performances such as the Thiruvathira dance, Kolkali, a depiction of the famous Kerala Boat Race, and various traditional songs and games.

The star attraction was the “Welcoming of Mahabali,” in which a member dressed as the legendary King Mahabali strolled among the crowd, blessing everyone as per tradition, symbolizing the happiness and equality under his reign.

The festivities concluded with a grand feast, the Ona Sadhya, a traditional Kerala-style lunch served on banana leaves with over 20 dishes. More than 1,200 people enjoyed this authentic meal at the Kerala Samajam premises in Sakchi.

Prominent dignitaries, including Kerala Samajam Model School President KPG Nair, were present to share in the celebrations. Despite Onam officially concluding on September 15, marking the Malayalee New Year, the Kerala Samajam Jamshedpur’s celebrations brought the spirit of Onam to life on September 29, creating an atmosphere of joy and unity for the community.

Onam is the biggest and the most important festival of Kerala. It is a festival connected with the return of Asura (demon) King Mahabali, under whose reign everyone lived in happiness and equality.