Mangalore: Tradition comes alive at Onam celebration in city

Pics: Brijesh Garodi
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangalore

Mangalore, Sep 21: Colourful celebration depicting the tradition and rich culture of Kerala was on the occasion of Onam at TMA Pai hall here on Saturday September 21. The celebration, organized by Kerala Samajam, was inaugurated by minister for forest, ecology and environment B Ramanath Rai.

Addressing the gathering, minister Rai said, "Karnataka and Kerala states are closely related. Be it food, manners, traditions, religious programmes, our state matches with the Malabar region."

About plans to establish a community hall in a two-acre land by Kerala Samajam, Ramanath Rai asked them to go ahead as planned and assured his support.

Urban development minister Vinay Kumar Sorake said Onam is a festival where people of different languages, religions, states, and countries come together and celebrate. "Kerala state has excelled in all fields as compared to other states in the country. In terms of discipline, environment, resources, education, sports and others, the state is a role model to other states," he said.

"The religious practices, cultures and gods of coastal parts of Karnataka are similar to those of Kerala and I am proud to be part of the celebration. I wish that our mutual friendship continues," added minister Sorake.

Prior to the formal stage programme, various entertainment programmes and ‘Athapookkalam’ (flower arrangement) competitions were held at the venue.

T K Ranjan, president of Kerala Samajam, secretary V S Ajith Kumar, joint secretary M V Tajan, advisor Govinda Kutti among others were present.