Tourism News

KERALA TOURISM NEWSLETTER

Onam Celebrated at the Rashtrapati Bhavan

Honourable President of India, Mr. Pranab Mukherjee hosted hundreds of guests at his official residence for a special programme celebrating Onam. In a first of its kind, the Onam celebrations were organised at the Rashtrapati Bhavan by the Government of Kerala.

Titled ‘Kairali’, the Onam evening showcased the unique art forms of Kerala. “Onam is a festival that transcends the barriers of caste, creed and social status. It is a secular festival celebrated by one and all,” said Mr. Pinarayi Vijayan, Chief Minister, Kerala. “Onam reminds us every year of the spirit of love, brotherhood, peace and harmony,” he said.

Around 70 artists performed at the hour-long cultural programme which began with a “Vadyamanjari” a percussion ensemble, and showcased art forms such as Mohiniyattam, Kathakali and a choreographed performance of Kerala Natanam, Margamkali, Oppana, Thiruvathirakali, Theyyam, and Kalaripayattu. This was followed by ‘Onasadya’, the grand feast served during Onam festival.

Organised by Kerala Tourism in partnership with the Rashtrapati Bhavan’s 'Indra Dhanush' cultural series, the programme was graced by dignitaries including Mr. Hamid Ansari, Vice President of India, Mr. P. Sadasivam, Governor of Kerala, Mr. Pinarayi Vijayan, Chief Minister of Kerala, and his cabinet colleagues Mr. A. C. Moideen, Minister for Tourism, Mr. E. Chandrasekharan, Minister for Revenue, Mr. Kadannappally Ramachandran, Minister for Ports ,Mr. A. K. Sasindran, Minister for Transport , Ms. K. K. Shylaja , Minister for Health, Ms. J. Mercikutty Amma, Minister for Fisheries, and Mr. K. T. Jaleel, Minister for Local Self-Government, Mr. Mohan M. Shantanagoudar, Chief Justice, Kerala High Court, MPs, senior state and central government officials including  Mr. S. M. Vijayanand, Chief Secretary, as well as Ambassadors from Gulf nations.