(Top and above) Members of the Malayalee community celebrate Onam through cultural programmes in Bhubaneswar. Pictures by Ashwinee Pati

Bhubaneswar, Sept. 21: Keralites in the capital were in no hurry to let go off the festive fervour and spirit of Onam. After hosting celebrations and a grand luncheon last week, Kerala Kala Samiti (KKS) organised a cultural programme on Sunday as a fitting note to end the auspicious festival.

Despite heavy rainfall that lashed the city on Sunday, members of the community showed up at KKS centre for an evening of dance, music and merry-making.

The annual event was filled with excitement and ardour with the participation of around 70 Keralite families based in the city. The community centre was bubbling with energy and enthusiasm as the audience stood up to cheer for every performer.

At the end of each performance, incessant roars of applause filled the auditorium. From colourful saris, sleek gold ornaments to jasmine garlands beautifully tucked in the hair, the women did every bit to match up to the grandeur of the occasion.

“Kerala Kala Samiti is almost 40 years old and every year to grace the occasion of Onam, we organise this cultural programme. Both men and women participate in these programmes with enthusiasm. The event also gives an opportunity to community members to showcase their talents,” said T. Ramachandran, member of Kerala Kala Samiti.

The evening started with traditional dance kaithapoo performed by eight young dancers in customary white sari with golden border. This dance is integral for Onam and signifies the welcoming of the harvest season. Kaithapoo was followed by Odissi dance performed by another young performer. Her grace and posture impressed the audience. It was then turn for some musical amusement.

A group of men and women had the audience tapping their foot on some of the popular Malayalee musical tracks such as Utharada poo nilaavee va and Kera nira.

The function concluded with Odissi dance recitals performed by Manoranjan Pradhan and his wife Minati Pradhan. They started off with a mangalacharan, Navadurga, to evoke Goddess Durga that left the spectators speechless. Minati beautifully portrayed the rage and anger of Goddess Durga. The duo received immense appreciation from the audience.

“I am a big fan of both Manoranjan and Minati Pradhan. It was a pleasure to watch them perform. Every year Kerala Samiti organises beautiful programmes and I feel proud to be a part of this festival, ” said Priya, a homemaker.

The community members also arranged for a sumptuous dinner, which was attended by their friends from different communities.