The rich heritage of Kerala, along with the solidarity, discipline and social commitment demonstrated by Malayalees, is exemplary, said Dr. Srikanth Shinde, Member of Parliament. He praised the Malayali community for preserving its culture and traditions while living away from their homeland and continuing to contribute meaningfully to society.
Dr. Shinde also noted that the contributions of Malayalees in various fields across Mumbai and Maharashtra have significantly supported the social and cultural development of the state.
He was speaking as the Guest of Honour at the Onam celebrations organised by the World Malayali Federation (WMF), Maharashtra State Council.
The celebrations commenced with the lighting of the traditional Bhadradeepam, followed by the ceremonial arrival of Mahabali (Maveli), accompanied by a musical ensemble presented by Anil Poduval and his team. Film actor Jayaraj Warrier was the Chief Guest, while MLA Rajesh More and former Lok Sabha member Anand Paranjpe were the special guests.
Jayaraj Warrier praised the activities and festive programmes organised by the World Malayali Federation, noting that its collective initiatives promote goodness, unity and social harmony. His lively presentation, blending songs, poetry and his trademark humour, entertained the audience while also conveying meaningful messages.
WMF Maharashtra State Council Patron Dr. Oommen David, President Dr. Roy John Mathew and Secretary Dominic Paul shared the stage. The office-bearers outlined the organisation’s activities and future programmes.
The cultural segment featured a variety of artistic performances by Ganesh Iyer (Dombivli), Sheena Shankar (Koparkhairane), Madhuri Pratap (Thane), Sujitha Balakrishnan, Tanima and others. The performances added colour and vibrancy to the celebrations.
As the Maharashtra State Council completed its first year, its first anniversary was also celebrated by cutting a cake. Dr. Oommen David, who has been leading the organisation’s Maharashtra unit, was felicitated by film actor Jayaraj Warrier and Dr. Roy John Mathew.
A spirited Vanchipattu led by Jayaraj Warrier brought a traditional touch to the celebrations. Dr. Oommen David took the helm at the Chundan Vallam, while President Dr. Roy John Mathew, Secretary Dominic Paul and other core committee members joined in as rowers, creating an energetic and memorable presentation. The Vanchipattu, conveying the message of unity, friendship and collective celebration among Malayalis, provided a fitting finale to the programme.
Patron Dr. Oommen David and President Dr. Roy John Mathew expressed their appreciation to the members and volunteers whose collective efforts contributed to the success of the celebrations.
A specially arranged selfie point featuring Pavithran Nair as Mahabali became another attraction of the event. A memorable moment was when MP Dr. Srikanth Shinde touched Mahabali’s feet and sought his blessings, drawing the attention of those present.
The programme was compered by Sindhu Nair, Anjali Menon and Manoj Ayyaneth, while Adv. Rakhi Sunil proposed the vote of thanks.