Onam Celebrations Conclude in State
Published in Newsletter Issue No. 277 - September 2016
The week-long Onam celebrations hosted by Kerala Tourism concluded with a cultural pageantry.
The pageantry comprised a carnival showcasing the traditional heritage of the State and the country. Around 1,000 artistes performing over 50 art forms was the highlight.
A visual treat, men and women attired in traditional costumes led the procession bearing Muthukkuda and Olakkuda. This was followed by a host of colourful performances such as Theyyam, Mayura Nritham, Kathakali, Velakali, and Pookkavadi. Percussion performances of Panchavadyam, Shingarimelam, and Chendamelam added spice to the event.
Performances by 160 artistes from other States, including Sambalpuri from Odisha, Mathuri tribal dance from Telangana, Silambattam from Puducherry, Sarakalu from Andhra Pradesh, Siddhi Dhamal from Gujarat, Gudumbaja from Madhya Pradesh, Fug and Khumar from Haryana, Dolkunitha and Somanakunitha from Karnataka, and Karagom and dummy horse from Tamil Nadu, were also part of the festivities.
Over 75 thematic floats, presented by government departments, public-sector undertakings, private institutions, local bodies, cooperatives, and others accompanied the performers.