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Onam, Kerala’s annual harvest festival, is celebrated with immense enthusiasm to honor the mythical King Mahabali, whose reign is remembered as a golden era of prosperity, equality, and harmony. Beyond its mythological significance, Onam also marks the arrival of spring and the abundance of the harvest season, making it a time when families and communities come together in joyous celebration. While the official date of Onam falls on September 5, 2025, UMA has scheduled its program for the following evening to accommodate the convenience of working families, students, and well-wishers, ensuring maximum participation from the community.
In his message, O. D. Joseph, President of the United Malayalee Association, expressed his heartfelt enthusiasm for the event. He said, “Onam is more than a festival; it is a celebration of our shared heritage, values, and the spirit of togetherness. We are immensely proud to host this grand event at the Campion School Auditorium, bringing the essence of Kerala to Bhopal. The presence of our esteemed Chief Guest, Shri Viswas Sarang, and the special performance by Shri Sajan Palluruthy will make this year’s Onam truly unforgettable. We invite everyone to join us in this joyous occasion and celebrate the legacy of King Mahabali with love, unity, and pride.”
The evening will open with the traditional and ceremonial arrival of King Mahabali, a reenactment that symbolizes his annual visit to his people and the values of equality and prosperity he represents. From there, the program will flow into a series of captivating cultural presentations that embody Kerala’s artistic traditions. Classical dances such as Mohiniyattam and the graceful Thiruvathirakali will be performed with devotion.
The program will also showcase children’s songs, magic show and dance performances prepared by the younger members of UMA, ensuring that all generations are part of the celebration. Adding to the grandeur of the occasion, UMA is honored to welcome Shri Viswas Sarang, Hon’ble Minister, as the Chief Guest of the evening. His participation not only elevates the event but also underscores the deep harmony between the Malayalee community and the cultural fabric of Madhya Pradesh. The festivities will be further enriched by the presence of Shri Sajan Palluruthy, a celebrated star of the Malayalam film industry, who will present a special performance designed to delight audiences of all ages. His involvement is expected to be one of the major highlights of the evening, adding glamour, excitement, and star power to the celebrations.
The United Malayalee Association warmly invites all Malayalees, their families, friends, and members of the wider Bhopal community to participate in this cultural extravaganza. The celebration is open to all, regardless of linguistic or cultural background, and promises to offer everyone whether Malayalee or not a unique glimpse into the richness of Kerala’s traditions. Early registration is encouraged to ensure participation in the Onasadya and other key activities, and those wishing to volunteer or contribute to the cultural program are invited to contact the organizers.
The United Malayalee Association is a non-profit cultural organization based in Bhopal, dedicated to promoting, preserving, and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Kerala among the Malayalee diaspora. Through festivals, community service, and cultural exchange, UMA fosters unity among Malayalees while enriching the multicultural landscape of Madhya Pradesh.
