A Grand Onam Celebration in Kuwait
The World Malayalee Council (WMC) Kuwait Province hosted a truly spectacular celebration of Onam, known as ‘Onappolima 2025,’ on September 26, 2025, at the Al-Sumedra Auditorium in Rumaithiya. The event attracted over 300 members of the Malayalee community living in Kuwait, bringing together people of all ages to revel in the spirit of Kerala’s most cherished festival.
Onam is not just a festival; it represents the soul of Kerala, the land of lush green landscapes, intricate traditions, and a culture that thrives on unity, family, and community spirit. In Kuwait, thousands of Malayalees have made the city their second home. Events like Onappolima are more than mere celebrations—they are a chance for the diaspora to connect with their roots, share memories, and pass cultural values to the next generation.
The venue was beautifully decorated, reflecting the essence of Kerala. Traditional floral arrangements, known as Pookkalam, adorned the floor, each design intricate and vibrant. The auditorium echoed with the fragrance of traditional delicacies and the laughter of families reunited for this special occasion. From elders to young children, everyone participated enthusiastically, demonstrating the living culture of Kerala, even miles away from home.
Honoring Academic Excellence
One of the highlights of Onappolima 2025 was the recognition of students who achieved excellence in their academic pursuits. The World Malayalee Council has always emphasized education as a pillar of community progress. At this event, bright students of the 10th and 12th grades were honored for their hard work and dedication.
Harith Ketan, the Second Secretary at the Indian Embassy in Kuwait, presented mementos to these outstanding achievers. His presence not only lent prestige to the ceremony but also emphasized the importance of educational achievement within the Malayalee community.
This recognition goes beyond awards; it is a message to the younger generation that their efforts and dedication are noticed and valued. It inspires children to dream big while staying connected to their cultural roots. Parents in the audience were beaming with pride, and the applause from the community created an atmosphere of encouragement and hope.
Leadership and Community Gratitude
The event featured warm speeches and addresses from key figures of the WMC Kuwait Province. General Secretary and Onappolima Convener Jeral Jose opened the ceremony with a heartfelt welcome address. His words set a tone of inclusivity and celebration, reminding everyone that Onam is a festival of togetherness and sharing.
Chairman Sajeev Narayanan and President Abdul Aziz Mattuvayil expressed their sincere gratitude to the community members, performers, volunteers, and sponsors who contributed tirelessly to make the event successful. Their acknowledgment highlighted that such celebrations are the result of collective effort and dedication.
Vice President Bindu Sajeev concluded the formal proceedings with a vote of thanks, emphasizing the importance of unity, volunteerism, and the role of every individual in sustaining the cultural fabric of the Malayalee diaspora in Kuwait. These speeches were not just ceremonial—they resonated deeply with the audience, reflecting genuine care, encouragement, and a shared sense of pride in their heritage.
A Vibrant Cultural Extravaganza
No Onam celebration is complete without a showcase of Kerala’s rich and diverse cultural heritage. Onappolima 2025 was a visual and auditory treat, featuring traditional music, dance, and theatrical performances that enthralled the audience.
One of the main attractions was a stage performance by renowned voice artist Basil Benny, whose storytelling and singing captured the essence of Kerala’s folklore. Traditional dance forms, such as Thiruvathira and Mohiniyattam, were performed gracefully, each step narrating stories of the past. Children participated in folk performances, wearing vibrant costumes, bringing laughter and charm to the celebration.
The cultural program not only entertained but also educated the audience about the deep-rooted traditions of Kerala. The performances were a reminder that culture is alive, evolving, and being passed down through generations, even when the community is thousands of miles away from home.
Traditional Culinary Experience
A significant part of Onam is the feast, and Onappolima 2025 did not disappoint. The event featured an elaborate Onam Sadya, the traditional vegetarian banquet served on banana leaves. The Sadya included a variety of dishes—from the tangy flavors of Olan and Avial to the sweet delight of Payasam, each dish meticulously prepared to perfection.
Food is not merely nourishment; it is a cultural expression. For many attendees, the Sadya was reminiscent of family gatherings back home in Kerala, evoking memories of grandparents, festivals, and shared meals. Sharing this meal together strengthened community bonds, as everyone sat side by side, enjoying the flavors of their heritage.
Inclusivity and Community Spirit
‘Onappolima 2025’ went beyond just being a cultural event. It was a platform that showcased the inclusivity and spirit of togetherness of the Malayalee community in Kuwait. Individuals from diverse backgrounds, professions, and age groups came together to celebrate, reflecting the unity that defines the WMC.
The event also welcomed non-Malayalee friends and neighbors, giving them an opportunity to experience the traditions of Kerala. This inclusivity reinforced the message that cultural celebrations are not just for a community they are for everyone who wishes to engage, learn, and share in the joy.
Moreover, the volunteers played an indispensable role in organizing and executing every segment of the celebration. Their dedication, planning, and hard work ensured that the event ran smoothly, setting an example of what collective effort can achieve.
Nurturing Youth Engagement
A notable focus of Onappolima 2025 was on engaging the younger generation. WMC Kuwait has always prioritized youth involvement, understanding that they are the torchbearers of cultural preservation.
Workshops, games, and interactive sessions were organized for children and teenagers, helping them learn traditional art forms, songs, and dances. By actively participating, the youth developed a deeper appreciation for their roots while creating memories that will stay with them for a lifetime.
Encouraging youth participation is vital because it ensures the continuity of traditions. The children of today are the future leaders, artists, and community organizers who will carry forward the legacy of the Malayalee culture abroad.
Promoting Arts and Talent
Onappolima 2025 also served as a stage for emerging artists within the community. Local singers, dancers, and performers had the opportunity to showcase their talent to a wider audience. This not only encouraged personal growth but also helped in discovering hidden talents within the diaspora.
Art has always been a medium of expression and identity. By providing a platform for performance, the WMC emphasized the importance of nurturing creativity, encouraging individuals to pursue their passions, and fostering a sense of pride in cultural expression.
Strengthening Global Connections
The celebration was not just about Kuwait; it symbolized the global reach of the Malayalee community. WMC has branches in multiple countries, and events like Onappolima create a sense of belonging that transcends geographical boundaries.
Connections forged in these gatherings often lead to collaborations, cultural exchanges, and shared projects among Malayalees worldwide. These events remind the diaspora that no matter where they live, they are part of a larger, vibrant, and supportive community.
Community Service and Social Responsibility
Beyond celebrations, WMC Kuwait also highlighted its commitment to social causes. Onappolima 2025 featured discussions and announcements regarding upcoming community service initiatives. These initiatives range from educational support programs to welfare activities for underprivileged sections within the Malayalee community.
The council’s focus on social responsibility demonstrates that cultural celebrations can also serve as a platform for positive change, encouraging members to contribute to the welfare of society while enjoying the festivities.
Looking Ahead
The success of Onappolima 2025 sets a high standard for future events. With newly elected office-bearers for the 2025–2027 term, the community looks forward to an active calendar filled with cultural, educational, and social initiatives.
Plans are already underway to expand youth programs, increase community outreach, and create opportunities for professional networking. These efforts will ensure that WMC Kuwait continues to grow as a hub of cultural preservation, community support, and global connectivity.
The organization’s vision is clear: to celebrate traditions, nurture talent, and create a lasting impact on the lives of its members. Onappolima 2025 is just one example of how the WMC embodies these values.
Conclusion
The World Malayalee Council Kuwait Province’s Onappolima 2025 was more than just a festival—it was a celebration of heritage, unity, and the enduring spirit of a community far from home. From honoring academic achievers to providing a platform for cultural performances, the event successfully blended tradition with contemporary engagement.
The smiles on the faces of children, the pride of parents, and the applause from the audience collectively highlighted the success of the event. It served as a reminder that culture is alive wherever communities come together to celebrate, share, and support each other.
As the WMC continues to foster community engagement, cultural preservation, and social responsibility, events like Onappolima 2025 will remain pivotal in strengthening the global Malayalee community. The celebration underscored that unity, joy, and heritage can thrive anywhere, creating bonds that last a lifetime.
Onappolima 2025 was not just an event; it was a testament to the spirit, resilience, and vibrant culture of the Malayalee diaspora, leaving memories that will inspire generations to come.
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