Payyanur Souhruda Vedi Muscat celebrates Eid al Adha and Onam

Payyanur Souhruda Vedi Muscat conducted this year’s Eid al Adha and Onam combined celebrations recently at Al Maasa Hall, Rex Road.

The programme began at 11am with ‘Onapookkalam’, an intricate and colourful arrangement of flowers laid on the floor in a beautifully designed artwork in a traditional way which is an important characteristic of Onam celebrations.

Thiruvathira Kali, a traditional dance form of Kerala which is an essential part of Kerala’s cultural fabric was presented by the ladies followed by live music programmes presented by talented singers of PSV members.

The major attraction of the programme was ‘Oppana’ which is a bridal group dance form specific to the Muslim community of Malabar region of Kerala presented by the male members of PSV much to the appreciation and applause of the audience.

A variety of other cultural and entertainment programmes were also presented including games for children and ‘Kambavali’ (rope pulling) which is a sports item involving two teams pulling each other to show a test of strength.

The programme followed by ‘Onasadya’ a grand meal consisting of a variety of dishes traditionally served on a banana leaf to mark the celebration of the return of the benevolent Asura King ‘Mahabali’ who was truthful and always followed the path of righteousness. Many Keralites see him as a role model.

Payyanur Souhruda Vedi (Muscat) is part of a global unity of all Payyanurians. Its primary aim is to bring all the Payyanurians around the world under one umbrella and co-ordinate their social and cultural activities.

Payyanur Souhruda Vedi provides a platform for its members to interact with the social and cultural life of the hometown. PSV Muscat, which is a premier local expatriate socio-cultural body is actively involved in various humanitarian work as well both in Oman and India.

General secretary Rajeev Madai welcomed the gathering and president Babu Puravankara addressed the crowd.