Media Release
Mangaluru, Sep 12: Onam is a vibrant festival celebrated with a rich array of cultural activities, including traditional dances, elaborate feasts, intricate floral decorations, and much more. It is a time for families and communities to unite, reflecting on their cultural heritage and embracing the spirit of unity and joy.
The Malayalam Association of St Aloysius Pre-University College commemorated this significant festival, bringing together students and faculty to partake in the festivities and celebrate the essence of Onam. Students intricately designed a beautiful pookalam at the college, setting the stage for the celebrations.
The vibrant festivities commenced with a solemn invocation by the college choir, followed by the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony. Jiya Ann (II PU), the secretary of the Malayalam Association, welcomed the gathering.
In his address, the principal, Fr Clifford Sequeira SJ, reflected on the profound significance of the festival, noting that it embodies the rich cultural heritage of India, characterised by its vast diversity in languages, culinary traditions, customs, religions, and festivals.
He remarked that India’s unparalleled variety offers a unique opportunity to celebrate our differences, fostering a deeper understanding and mutual respect through the exchange of traditions and cultural practices. The principal paid tribute to the legendary King Mahabali, whose reign is celebrated for its ideals of peace, justice, equality, and unity.
He observed that the celebration of Onam in Kerala is marked by genuine joy, camaraderie, and a spirit of togetherness, making it a festival that truly feels like a family gathering. On this auspicious occasion, he encouraged everyone to seek blessings for strengthening bonds of love and friendship.
The principal also called upon the students to remember the people of Wayanad, who continue to recover from recent adversities, urging everyone to extend their prayers and support. He appealed to the students to pray for the nation’s leaders, encouraging them to follow the example of King Mahabali, who governed with righteousness, and expressed hope that our leaders would be guided by these virtues to genuinely work for the welfare of society and lead the country toward a more just and humane future. He concluded by extending his warmest wishes to the students, hoping that the spirit of Onam would inspire them to contribute positively to the college community.
Following the principal’s address, students presented a captivating skit that depicted the Onam celebrations in Kerala, highlighting the festive preparations and the symbolic return of King Mahabali. The skit also poignantly addressed the ongoing challenges faced by the people of Wayanad, remembering the victims of the recent calamity.
The event showcased a traditional Thiruvathira dance, performed collaboratively by both teachers and students, illustrating the rich cultural heritage of Kerala. Additionally, students in traditional attire presented various dance performances, capturing the joy and vibrancy of the festival.
The programme featured an energetic Chende performance by students, followed by a unique fusion of rap and melody. The festivities concluded with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of all involved and marking the end of a memorable celebration.
Fr Pradeep Sequeira SJ, the finance officer; Fr Anthony Derrick SJ, the campus minister; vice-principal Vilma Fernandes; Deans Dr Pradeep M and Kiran Shetty; and the coordinators of the event, Mary K F, Diana Mary Joseph, and Deepthi Murugeshan, were present at the ceremony. Sruthi K R and Amina Zeba, second-year students, compered the programme.
To mark the occasion, several competitions were organised, including a Payasam-making contest and a Pookalam (floral decoration) competition. These events showcased the festive spirit and cultural richness of Onam, engaging participants in traditional activities that highlighted the essence of the festival.