ONAM CELEBRATION

Onam, the harvest festival of Kerala was celebrated with much enthusiasm by students of Std. I to IV at Vatika Premises and by students of Std. V to X at Main School premises on 25.08.2023. The celebration commenced with a warm welcome note, setting the stage for a day filled with cultural richness and traditional delights. The captivating speech from Std IV students gave insights into the cultural and historical significance of Onam. The audience gained a deeper understanding of the festival's roots, highlighting the legend of King Mahabali and the ethos of unity that Onam embodies. Students of Std. I with their tapestry of costumes, intricate footwork and graceful expressions transported the audience to the world of Onam traditions. The happy feet of tiny buds of Std. II perfectly synchronized with the rhythmic moves and stole the eyes of audience by their mesmerising performance. A graceful performance was presented by Std. III on the song “Vannallo Ponnonam”. Class I to IV dance performances showcased the vibrancy and energy of the festival.

At Main School premises, the students were dressed in colourful ethnic attire of the state of Kerala which added a touch of festivity to the atmosphere. The arrangements began with the making of the traditional floral decoration (pookolam) by the staff members.  Impressive design and artistic creativity were the hallmarks of the Pookolam which turned to be attractive and mesmerizing and took everyone into a world of festivity and fun.

The students organised a cultural medley of programmes. The function began with the Prayer followed by the Welcome Speech given by S. Harshith of V A. The programme commenced with the history and significance of Onam by the students of Class IX. The history of Onam was well explained and Mahabali, the King of Kerala appeared on stage amidst applause. 10 days of Onam and the traditions that finally culminates into Onam festival were very well explained by the students of Class IX. It was followed by a fusion dance by the students of Class V which left everyone spell bound.   

It was heartening to hear the melodious “Onampattu”, sung by the students of Class VIII.  No festival is complete without a grand feast. The Onam Sadhya is a gastronomical delight to everyone and the students of Class X served this feast to us during the celebrations.  All the mouth watering delicacies and their method of preparation were well explained by the students of class X.

The students of class VI and VII danced to the traditional Onam Songs, which was a delight to watch. The “Pulikali” was the main highlight of the programme which received a thunderous applause from the audience.

The students and teachers celebrated this special day with gaiety and warmth. Everything put together gave a cultural ambience to the environment and the atmosphere was of festivity and colour. Our Supervisory Incharge - Mrs. Rema Ma’am applauded the students for all their efforts and recalled how the festival of Onam was celebrated in olden days which brought together all members of the family to Kerala from different parts of the globe. Aegan of Class V D delivered the Vote of thanks and the function came to an end with the National Anthem.

The beauty of the festival lies in its secular fabric. People of all religions, caste and communities celebrate the festival with equal joy and fervour.  Amidst cheers of happiness and excitement, children learnt the importance of these special days and imbibed in them pride, cultural oneness and sense of belonging to one big family.