Panaji/Bicholim, Aug 27 (TOI): In an act of solidarity towards those affected by last week’s devastating floods in Kerala, the Keralite associations in the state cancelled Onam festivities. Instead, Malayali families in Goa chose to donate the money meant for the festivities. Further, they have mobilized relief material which is being dispatched in batches to the Southern state.

The nearly 70,000-strong Malayali population that calls Goa home boasts 11 different associations.“Each association spends anywhere between Rs 1-3 lakh for Onam celebrations each year. This year, we have used the money to purchase relief material which is being sent to Kerala with the help of the Indian Navy,” said All India Malayali Association, member, T Ravishankar.

In Bicholim, an awareness rally was held to motivate people to contribute to relief initiatives. The Kalpaka Cultural Association will hand over the amount collected by them to the Kerala Chief Minister’s Distress Relief Fund.

“Now is the time to provide assistance to Kerala. By deciding nottocelebrateOnam this year, the association has shown their affection towards the people of Kerala,” said Bicholim municipalcouncil,chairperson, Rajaram Gaonkar.