01/10/2026
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01/10/2026
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KUWAIT CITY, Oct 1: Celebrating the grandeur of Kerala's traditional harvest festival, Onam, the Indian Arts Federation (IAF) Kuwait organized Onavarnam 2026 with a vibrant array of cultural programmes at Calicut Live Auditorium, Ajial Mall, Fahaheel. The celebration, which conveyed a message of love, friendship, and brotherhood, witnessed the enthusiastic participation of families from various areas of Kuwait.
The festivities commenced with an Onam song by Helen Susan, renowned for her performances in IAF Star Voice. IAF General Secretary Leo Kizhakkeveedan delivered the welcome address, while President Sherine Mathew presided over the function. Anil P. Alex, General Secretary of the Kerala Press Club Kuwait, inaugurated the event. In his inaugural address, Anil P. Alex highlighted the power of art in bringing people together in a world increasingly marked by divisions and hostility. He emphasized that cultural organizations do more than organize celebrations; they play a significant role in promoting unity, sharing, and friendship among people.
IAF Chairman Preman Illath delivered the Onam message.
The cultural programme featured a variety of performances showcasing Kerala's rich traditions and cultural heritage, including Thiruvathirakali, a traditional boat-race presentation, and other folk and classical dance forms. Onam songs, dance performances, musical programmes, and recreational competitions involving children and adults added colour and excitement to the celebrations.
The tug-of-war competition emerged as one of the major attractions of the event, bringing the spirit and enthusiasm of Onam to the forefront. In a closely contested match, the Mangaf team emerged victorious, winning the IAF Ever-Rolling Trophy. Special sports and recreational activities organized for children also received enthusiastic participation.
In her presidential address, Sherine Mathew stated that such gatherings aim to strengthen friendships and family bonds while passing on Kerala's rich cultural heritage to the younger generation. The IAF also expressed its condolences on the demise of Soorya Krishnamoorthy, a renowned Indian cultural organizer and curator.
The event was organized under the leadership of IAF Cultural Secretary Nirmala Devi, Programme Convener Priya Kannan, Secretary Murali Muruganandan, and office bearers Bony Kurian, Gladson, Joby, Harindran, Dr. Juby, Kuriakose, Shilpa Sivan, and Lijo.The event was further enriched by the graceful compering of Levina Kurian and Dayasree. A sumptuous traditional Onam Sadhya was also served as part of the celebration.
The event concluded on a festive note, reinforcing the spirit of unity, cultural pride, and togetherness among the Malayali community in Kuwait.
