Warrier Samajam Delhi (WSD) celebrated this year's Onam Minnum Ponnonam on 20.10.2024 at MPs Hall, South Avenue, New Delhi. The celebrations started with the customary lighting of lamp by Justice (Retd) Hariprasad Varier in the presence of Shri N.V. Shekhara Varier, the founder Secretary of WSD; Smt. Sarala Varier; Shri Hari Das Varier, President, WSD; and Shri Damodaran Kutty, Secretary, WSD on the dais. This was followed by prayer by Smt.Raji Warrier. It was a truly remarkable Onam celebration! . The array of cultural performances was captivating, with the highlight, undoubtedly, the beautifully choreographed kaikottikkali- the traditional Onam dance - brought to life by a band of graceful ladies (including some mom and daughter duos). Their elegant movements and synchronized steps were indeed charming !
A colourful 'Athappookkalam' was made by the ladies and children of WSD before the start of the program which adorned the program venue with elegance!
Adding to the joy, the little children, Meenakshi, Sreekarthik and Sreenand, full of enthusiasm, brought warmth to the hearts of the participants with their delightful performances. It was a treat to see kids of all ages pouring their energy and spirit into each act. And then, as always, Sharanya, a good Bharatanatyam dancer; Cdr. Prashant, Akshay, Lata ji, Prabha ji, Swati ji and Nitya ji all good singers rocked the stage, leaving everyone tapping their feet and singing along. The poem recitation by Raji Warrier also won the hearts of everyone present. Some of their presence has been truly a gift to gatherings of the Samajam for quite some time now.
Cdr Prashant’s effortless compering added a special touch to the event, taking all seamlessly through the program with wit and charm. The Onam celebration also gave all a cherished opportunity to meet new members, helping them build connections and share family histories
And, of course, the grand finale, the traditional Onasadya served on vazha-ela ... a rare delight - only the second time in the recent history- that brought back the essence of Onam in its truest form
All were in heartfelt appreciation to the incredible ladies who put their hearts and souls into preparing the Onassadya. Their dedication and painstaking effort brought all a feast that was truly sumptuous, filled with all the traditional delicacies that make Onam so special. At last count, there were some 13 (lucky for us!) delightful servings on the ela, each more delicious than the other, embodying the rich culinary heritage of Kerala
And then, the icing on the cake - the paayasam. Its sweetness lingers not only on the taste buds but in the memories of all as well, providing the perfect end to a perfect meal. The love and care with which every dish was prepared made this Onasadya an experience that will be cherished for a long time.
A special appreciation goes out to every member who showed up, most dressed in their traditional finest and filled with festive cheer. The spirit of community and togetherness shone brightly, making this Onam celebration a memorable one to remember for a long time. The turn out for this celebration was the best in the recent past and many new members also joined who introduced themselves to all.
Samiti has been giving away Proficiency Awards for the top scorers of 12th and 10th classes for the past many years. This time the only entrant for this Award was Kum. Anika A. Warrier daughter of Advocate Ajit Varier and Smt. Jyotsna Varier who passed out her 12th class with flying colours. In her absence the Award was received by her grandparents.
The program ended with the vote of thanks!
[We acknowledge our gratitude for a wonderful write up authored by Cmde (R) Anand most of which has been borrowed for penning this report.]
More photos:
Congratulations & best wishes to organisers & participants: warriers.org
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