Onam celebrations, Newsbytes, Kerala Tourism

KERALA TOURISM NEWSLETTER

ISSUE: 182

OCTOBER 2008

Onam Celebrations

The annual Onam celebrations organized by Kerala Tourism proved to be a splendid affair this year as well. The celebrations, held in eleven venues in Thiruvananthapuram city, won mass attention, with the traditional cultural attractions of Kerala adding colour and spice to the events. The week long celebrations were inaugrated by Mr. V. S. Achuthanandan, the Chief Minister of Kerala in the presence of Mr. Kodiyeri Balakrishnan, Minister for Tourism. There was a variety of dance, music as well as drama performances by eminent artistes and groups. Traditional folk art forms like Eruthukali, Charadu Pinnikkali, Poorakkali and Kakkarissi Natakam were received with great enthusiasm by the spectators.

Kathaprasangam, Kathakali, Kalarippayattu and village sport items also drew huge crowds. The food festival held at Kanakakkunnu palace, in which many prominent hotels participated, which proved to be a great hit. For those interested in ethnic jewellery and artifacts, the craft fair that brought together around 70 craft guilds became the most interesting event. A colourful procession presented by various central and state government departments, local bodies and non-governmental organizations marked the end of the celebrations on September 16, 2008.