Venkat Raman
Auckland, September 1, 2020
Friendly people showering respect and hospitality, entertainers in colour costumes and men and women serving at least 18 different food items are among the features of ‘Onam,’ the most colourful festival of the people of South Indian State of Kerala.
Unfortunately, this year, festivities were confined to home in New Zealand in view of the fear of community transmission of Covid-19. Onam 2020, celebrated yesterday (August 31, 2020) was subdued in India as well.
Every year, the Auckland Malayali Samajam and the Auckland Hindu Malayali Samajam organise Onam featuring traditional songs and dances, a skit and traditional welcome to ‘Mahabali.’
‘Onam Sadhya,’ an exquisite meal that will highlight not only the cuisine but also culture of Kerala will be the highlight of the event.
While the actual day of celebration of Onam in Kerala was on Monday, August 31, 2020, celebrations in other parts of the world would vary, depending on the convenience of local communities.
Oneness at heart
The community spirit and sense of belonging of people of Kerala come to the fore at Onam festivities every year. There are no Hindus, Christians, Muslims, Nairs, Menons, Namboodris or any other faiths in such gatherings. There are just Malayalis coming together to mark the change of season to one of harvesting the goodness sown months earlier. The reason for the gathering could have a historic perspective involving a Demon King (please read the adjacent story) but the purpose these days is to foster harmony and peace that are so conspicuous by their absence in the modern world.
Multicultural Society
“Kerala has a multicultural society of Hindus, Muslims and Christians living in harmony from times immemorial. Keralites have a very broadminded culture, which permits mutual respect of social and cultural aspects. The same attitudes and values are brought to New Zealand. This is particularly relevant and valuable for the youth born and bought up here or who came here at a very young age,” Mr Varghese said.
‘Malayalis,’ as they are known, are among the most hardworking, resilient and family-oriented people from India and over the years, their presence in almost every country around the world as professionals, entrepreneurs, scientists, medical practitioners, engineers, accountants, administrators, support staff has been acknowledged and applauded. They are among the most prominent expatriates in the Arab Gulf which was home for this writer for a length of time.
Auckland Malayali Samajam
Established in 1997 as a not-for-profit organisation, Auckland Malayali Samajam aims to preserve and promote the unique culture of Kerala.
The Samajam accounts for more than 1000 members and that a number of cultural, educational and sporting events have been planned for the year.
The Samajam aims to educate the younger members of our community on the rich culture and language of Kerala and help them to grow as responsible citizens.
“We are committed to the well-being of all New Zealanders, towards the achievement of which we conduct blood donation camps every year, organise donations for community welfare organisations such as Salvation Army and the Auckland City Mission, Westpac Rescue Helicopter, St John’s Ambulance,” Mr Varghese said.
Auckland Hindu Malayali Samajam
Established three years ago, the Auckland Malayali Hindu Samajam is a not-for-profit organisation aimed at promoting the Hindu way of life among the younger members of the community.
Samajam President Gopal Ayyar said that it is politically agnostic and non-partisan.
“We are informed but will not favour or endorse any political party or position. We do not intend to be affiliated with any other religious or political organisation. The Samajam’s key initiative is to spread the awareness of our rich tradition and the Hindu tenets to our younger generation,” he said.
