Maithri Onam 2010 Celebrations

Onam doesn't just mark the visit of the good king Mahabali to his subjects every year - it is also the essence of many of the elements that make Kerala "God's Own Country". Colorful Pookkalam (flower designs), Onasadhya (special Onam feast) and Kaikottikali (a traditional dance from Kerala) are inseparable parts of this vibrant harvest-festival that every Malayali worth his salt will swear by.

For those who have missed the celebrations back home or want to have a slice of Kerala's unique culture in Hyderabad, Maithri, a socio-cultural forum, is blending all these elements and celebrating Onam this 12th September, at Jayalaxmi Gardens. Since the event also coincides with Maithri's 15th anniversary, the celebrations have just become bigger this year.

The event begins at 10:30am, with the traditional lighting of the lamp, by actress Urvashi. Following this, Kalabhavan Navaz will keep the audience in splits through his mimicry, and the singer trio of Sudheep Kumar, Jimmy and Shreeja Dinesh will take everyone on a musical journey crooning some hit regional and Hindi numbers.

Manjusha Mohandas will present Keralanatyam, a fusion dance form choreographed by her using Bharatnatyam, Mohiniattam and Kathakali styles. Kamal Santosh will then take over to entertain kids through his dance and magic show. And of course, there is Kaikottikali, presented by a group from the twin cities, without which no Onam celebration is incomplete. The program will end at 6pm.

Lunch will comprise Onasadhya, the traditional Onam feast served on plantain leaves. It will consist of an eclectic variety of 25 dishes, including avial, thoran, upperies and the sweet payasam.

There will also be stalls selling different items at discounted rates.

Donor passes to the even are available at Rs. 300. Please contact 90004-84900/98850-12339 for further details.