• September 3, 2026

KCWA’s ‘Keraleeyam’ Onam Celebrations Light Up Croydon with Colour, Culture, and Community Spirit

KCWA’s ‘Keraleeyam’ Onam Celebrations Light Up Croydon with Colour, Culture, and Community Spirit

CROYDON Sept 3: Fairfield Halls became a vibrant celebration of Kerala’s heritage as KCWA hosted Keraleeyam 2026, marking Onam—the traditional harvest festival—with colour, culture, and community pride. Audiences were taken on a journey through time with classical dances, colourful costumes, music, and immersive visual effects, culminating in KCWA’s musical drama Shakunthalam.

KCWA Dance School students and members captivated the audience with Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattam, Kathakali, cinematic dance, and other dynamic performances. The evening also featured an interactive mentalism act and an energetic live music finale by Kerala’s prominent Nadanpaattu singer Praseedha Chalakudy and team. The event opened with the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, led by KCWA Patron Mr Mangalavadanan and Secretary Shah Haridas, followed by a welcome address from KCWA President Mr Manilal Raman. Members of the Keralan community from across London boroughs gathered to enjoy one of KCWA’s most colourful cultural productions to date.

The Civic Mayor of Croydon, Cllr Mohammed Islam, presented the Educational Achievement Awards, honouring outstanding GCSE and A-Level achievers. The awards were sponsored in memory of loved ones by Mr Badusha Karim, Mr Ullas Ran, Mr Jayaraj Damodaran, Mr Jayachandran Pillai, and Ms Sherin Logan. Distinguished guests included Mr Lokesh Kumar from the Indian High Commission, Cllr Nikhil Thampy, and Cllr Manju Shahul Hameed.

Keraleeyam 2026 celebrated Onam’s timeless message of joy and unity, reaffirming KCWA’s role as a cultural pillar in Croydon. KCWA expresses heartfelt gratitude to attendees, volunteers, and sponsors, noting that the event showcased the unity and cultural richness of Kerala’s diaspora in the UK.