(see in pics) United Malayalee Association Bhopal Celebrates Onam 2026 with a Spectacular Cultural Showcase
Bhopal: The United Malayalee Association (UMA), in association with Malayalam Mission, celebrated Onam 2026 with a variety of events, which took place on Sunday, August 30, at HEMA School, Security Lane, BHEL, Bhopal.
The festivities provided an exuberant homage to the rich cultural tapestry of the Malayalee community, bringing residents together for an evening filled with exceptional performances and heartfelt camaraderie. The evening unfolded with a vibrant cultural showcase that captivated the audience from start to finish. The event was a testament to the community's artistic flair and commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while embracing contemporary expressions.
In the afternoon before the start of the cultural program a Tug-of-War competition was held where many youth teams participated. Also presentation of Athapoov (Rangoli) competition was also held where many teams presented beautiful floral rangoli.
The festivities began in the evening with a dazzling performance by various students of Malayalam Mission, which is imparting the Malayalam language to the next generation, with the support of the United Malayalee Association.
Natyashri, another esteemed participant, delivered mesmerizing performances that seamlessly blended traditional and modern elements. Their engaging and lively acts resonated deeply with the audience, showcasing the diverse artistic spirit of the community. Natyashri’s performances were a reflection of the community’s ability to innovate while honoring its roots, providing a memorable experience that delighted all in attendance.
Earlier, King Mahabali was accorded a grand and traditional welcome, accompanied by Chenda Melam, alongside girls holding Thalappoli (diyas with flower petals). It was truly a majestic reception.
This was followed by one of the most cherished moments of the evening—Thiruvathira Dance, a traditional Onam ritual that holds a special place in the festival's celebrations. Performed with precision and passion, the Thiruvathira Dance illustrated the cultural significance of this beloved tradition, infusing the event with a festive and authentic Onam spirit. The performance was a beautiful representation of the cultural practices that define the Onam festival.
A skit vividly portrayed the importance of caring and sharing in family life, with some emotional scenes. A group song by ladies wing of UMA also added melodious moment.
O.D. Joseph, President, UMA, in his welcome address, emphasized that the true relevance of Onam in today's life lies not only in following traditions but also in incorporating the essence of the festival into our daily lives. He said the association’s commitment to promoting traditional art and culture was exhibited through the grand Kerala Fest conducted over the last two years, which showcased the rich cultural tapestry of Kerala, offering the people of Bhopal a deep insight into the state's traditions and heritage.
Raghuraj M.R., IAS, Secretary, Labour Department, Govt. of M.P., was the chief guest of the function. In his address, he said, “Onam is a festival that symbolizes unity, peace, and harmony. It reflects the values of togetherness and community, much like the spirit we see here today. King Mahabali's legend reminds us of equality, generosity, and the importance of upholding righteousness in society.”
He praised the community for organizing such functions, which bring life to traditions, art, and culture. It is heartening to see how the Malayalee community in Bhopal continues to uphold these cherished traditions, even when far from Kerala.
Jayan P. Samuel, SP, CRPF, Bhopal, also addressed the gathering and conveyed their Onam greetings to the community.
Anirudh K.V., a young boy from Kerala living with cerebral palsy, facing challenges every day and using a wheelchair for mobility, attended the function. He was on a tour of Madhya Pradesh. Despite physical barriers, he has travelled extensively across India, exploring cultures, meeting people from all walks of life, and building a strong sense of confidence and independence. He addressed the gathering from his wheelchair, motivating the youngsters.
The meritorious students of Classes 10 and 12 were felicitated and awarded cash prizes. The winners of the Tug-of-War competition and the Athapoov competition (floral rangoli) were also awarded.
The celebrations were elevated by the presence of cine and television artist Aneesh Ravi, a household name in Malayalam entertainment, known for his iconic roles in mega-serials and films.
The Onam 2026 celebration, organized by the United Malayalee Association, was a resounding success, reflecting UMA’s unwavering dedication to promoting cultural richness and fostering a strong sense of community. The evening was a joyful reminder of the unity and creativity that define the Malayalee community in Bhopal.
K.P. Das, UMA General Secretary, and S. Gopakumar, President, Malayalam Mission MP Chapter, also spoke on the occasion. K.M. Raghu, Arts Secretary, coordinated the programme, while K.R. Manoj proposed the vote of thanks.