• September 14, 2023

Keralite university students in Bournemouth take lead to celebrate Onam for Malayalee community

Keralite university students in Bournemouth take lead to celebrate Onam for Malayalee community

By Majid Paramban

BOURNEMOUTH Sept 14: The Keralite community in Bournemouth experienced a touch of Kerala’s vibrant culture as they came together for the grand celebration of Onam, aptly named “OLAM’23.”

Organized by the Bournemouth Malayalee Students Community (BMSC) on September 3, 2023, this event left an indelible mark on the attendees.

The Bournemouth University’s Talbot campus, specifically the Talbot House, came alive with the colors, traditions, and flavors of Kerala as Keralite students and their families joined hands to celebrate Onam in style.

OLAM’23 was more than just a celebration; it was a day filled with cultural richness, delicious food, outdoor games, and a grand musical finale by DJ Vanet.

Click To View Onam Celebrations Pictures

The day began with a traditional lamp-lightingceremony, symbolizing the auspicious commencement of OLAM’23. Fathima Farha, the Vice President of Welfare and Community at the Students Union Bournemouth University (SUBU), inaugurated this sacred moment, setting the tone for the festivities ahead.

Cultural Spectacular: Thiruvathira Dance Performance

One of the event’s highlights was a mesmerizing Thiruvathiradance performance. This traditional dance form, known for its grace and precision, showcased the rich cultural heritage of Kerala. Attendees were spellbound by the dancers’ skill and the artistic expression that this ancient art form conveyed.

Culinary Delights and Camaraderie

Following the cultural performances, it was time for the much-awaited Onam Sadya (feast). The feast featured a delightful array of traditional Kerala dishes, including avial, olan, pappadam, and payasam. It was a culinary journey that allowed everyone to savor the authentic flavors of Kerala and left taste buds tingling with delight.

Adding an element of fun and camaraderie, OLAM’23 introduced outdoor games like the lemon and spoon race and Vadam vali (tug of war). Enthusiastic participants, both young and old, created joyful memories for families and friends. The Tug of War competition was fiercely competitive, with the Alma Gang emerging as the triumphant champions.

In a special tribute to the spirit of OLAM’23, Feroze Baker was crowned as Mr OLAM, and Ahalliya was elected as Ms OLAM. Their embodiment of the event’s spirit added to the festivity. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the event transitioned into a high-energy musical performance by DJ Vanet. Attendees danced the night away, infusing a contemporary twist into the traditional celebration, creating a memorable fusion of cultures.

Community Celebration: Reflections and Unity

Reflecting on OLAM’23, members of the Bournemouth Malayalee Students Community expressed their delight, emphasizing how it provided a platform for Malayali students and their families to celebrate their culture and share it with the broader Bournemouth community. The event underscored the power of cultural events in fostering connections and understanding among diverse communities.

The success of OLAM’23 not only highlighted the rich traditions of Kerala but also promoted cultural exchange and unity among students and their families. It showcased the importance of preserving and sharing cultural heritage in an ever-diverse world.

As the night drew to a close, attendees left with a deeper appreciation for Kerala’s culture and the strong bonds formed during this joyous celebration. OLAM’23 was not just an event; it was a beautiful tapestry of traditions, community, and unity that left a lasting impression on all who attended.

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