© Malayali Association Luxembourg
Malayali Association Luxembourg hosts vibrant Onam celebration, highlighting Kerala's traditions and delicious Sadhya feast.
On 28 September, the Malayali Association Luxembourg hosted its fifth annual Onam celebration, transporting over 300 guests to the vibrant culture of Kerala, India. The regional harvest festival, commemorating the legendary reign of King Mahabali, came alive at the Centre Culturel in Cessange through a delectable feast, captivating performances, and friendly competitions.
The highlight of the day was the traditional Sadhya, a vegetarian gourmet meal served on a plantain leaf. Adorned in colourful Kerala attire, volunteers meticulously served more than 20 different dishes, each with its own unique flavour profile. From the bitterness of tamarind to the warmth of spices and the sweetness of payasam, a traditional dessert of milk and lentils, the Sadhya encapsulated the pinnacle of Kerala's rich culinary heritage.
Beyond the tantalizing feast, the event was a vibrant celebration of Onam's cultural traditions. Guests were treated to a mesmerizing display of Thiruvathira, a graceful prayer dance performed by women in elegant Kerala sarees. The lively atmosphere was further elevated by a captivating Bollywood dance routine that had the audience cheering.
For many attendees, the highlight was the opportunity to engage in beloved Onam games and activities. The crowd erupted in cheers as teams competed in a spirited tug-of-war, the victors receiving a prized bunch of bananas as their reward. Other popular events included various games that allowed both children and adults to showcase their skills and win prizes.
© Malayali Association Luxembourg
"Onam is a deeply significant festival for the Malayali community, and we are honoured to be able to share its traditions with our friends and neighbours here in Luxembourg," said Deepu Pillai, the General Secretary of the Malayali Association Luxembourg. "It is a time to celebrate our cultural heritage, strengthen our community bonds, and come together in the spirit of harmony and prosperity that King Mahabali represents."
The vibrant celebration served as a poignant reminder of the rich diversity that makes up the Luxembourg community. By embracing and sharing their cultural traditions, the Malayali Association Luxembourg not only honoured their own heritage but also fostered greater cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.
As the event drew to a close, guests left with full stomachs, fond memories, and a deeper appreciation for the vibrant tapestry of cultures that collectively define the Grand Duchy. The Malayali Association Luxembourg's Onam celebration had once again successfully captured the essence of this beloved harvest festival, reminding all in attendance of the unifying power of tradition and community.
