MUSCAT : The Palakkad Friends Association in Muscat marked its 12th anniversary celebrations alongside a grand two-day Onam festival, creating cherished memories for the community on 5^th and 6^th September at Al falaj Grand Hall, Muscat.

For the first time in the history of the festival on Thiruvonam Day itself an Onam Sadhya was served to more than 2,000 people. The highlight of the occasion was the symbolic arrival of Emperor Mahabali, a spectacular Chenda Melam by Muscat artists, and a vibrant array of cultural programs that captivated the audience.

Indian Ambassador to Oman, H.E. G.V. Srinivas, inaugurated the celebrations, delivering his greetings in Malayalam and emphasizing that “Onam is not just a Malayali festival, but a global celebration that unites people across cultures.”

The celebrations showcased an impressive lineup of performances:A dance sculpture paying tribute to late literary icon M.T. Vasudevan Nair.

Children’s cinematic dance and classical dance by film star Lakshmi Gopalaswamy, which drew thunderous applause.A special tribute dance honoring Lakshmi Gopalaswamy.

Actor and television presenter Mithun Ramesh marked Mammootty’s birthday with a torchlight tribute and a special dedication celebrating the superstar’s illustrious career.

A musical concert by popular playback singers Sreenath and Anju Joseph, livened up with energetic dance performances.

The colorful presence of young film stars Aparna Das and Deepak Parambol, adding glamour to the evening.

As part of the association’s tradition of honoring achievers, President Sreekumar presented the Cultural Award to actress Aparna Das, a Muscat-born talent who made her mark in the film industry. The newly instituted Social Welfare Award was conferred upon Smt. Beena Govind, founder secretary of Devashrayam Charitable Society, for her three decades of dedicated service in Palakkad. The award was presented by Ambassador Srinivas in the presence of social activist Dr.Santosh Geever. Academic excellence Awards were also distributed to students who excelled in the 10th and Plus Two examinations & several prizes were given away to guests through Raffle draws.

The Onam feast, prepared under the leadership of Palada Ganesh Swamy, brother of the renowned culinary expert Palada Parthan, was one of the major highlights. “It was a challenging task to organize an Onam Sadhya for over two thousand plus people on Thiruvonam day, but the tireless efforts of each and every member of the association made it possible,” said President Sreekumar, expressing gratitude to the media, volunteers, and well-wishers.

The event witnessed the participation of several distinguished personalities including conveners of Indian social club Linguistic wings, ISC officials, Indian School boardmembers , Indian Embassy officials, media representatives, and prominent figures from various district based associations, Oman’s commercial, art, and cultural sectors.

The grand celebration was organized under the leadership of president- Sreekumar, Vice President Harigovind, General Secretary Jitesh, Treasurer Jagadeesh , Women’s Wing Coordinator Charulatha Balachandran, Program Coordinator Vaisakh , and Management Committee members Suresh Kumar, Manoj, Srinivasan, Gopakumar, Neetu Pratap, and Praveen.

The event managed by Eyestone LLC concluded with the message of unity, cultural pride, and the spirit of Onam, leaving the community with unforgettable memories.