For the first time, the popular community portal IndiansinKuwait.com (IIK) organized a unique Onam celebration under the theme "Celebrate Onam with Ujala Detergent - Freedom from Gadgets" at Al Zumerida Hall, Salwa, on Friday, September 13th.
The full-day event, flawlessly executed by IIK, was highly appreciated by the community, with attendees praising the initiative to blend traditional Onam festivities with the modern challenge of detaching from gadgets.
The event was inaugurated by Chief Guest Shri Sanjay Muluka, Counsellor (Political & Commerce), Embassy of India Kuwait, by lighting the ceremonial lamp alongside Mr. Ali Al Sayeg, Chairman of Lemonade International, and representatives from IIK. Shri Sanjay Muluka lauded IndiansinKuwait.com for uniting the Indian community on a single platform and for organizing such an enriching event.
During the inauguration, the sponsors of the event were also honored. These included Mr. Mohit Sodani, Head of International Business at Jyothy Labs, and Mr. Ahmed Saleh, representing the Title Sponsor Ujala. Mr. Rajat Sawaria, Director of Action Trading Co, and Mr. Shibil Rasheed, Managing Director of Thakkara Restaurant, along with other key sponsors such as Rainbow Milk, Al Ansari Exchange, IFFCO, and Al-Rashed International Shipping, were acknowledged for their generous contributions.
The event featured vibrant, colorful Pookalams created by participants of the Oncost Onam Pookalam Contest and delectable Payasams made for the GRB Ghee Payasam Contest, enhancing the festive atmosphere. The presence of Mahabali, accompanied by traditional Chenda Melam, added to the authentic Onam experience.
Cultural dance performances by various associations and dance groups, including Palakkad Pravasi Association of Kuwait (Palpak), Nair Service Society (NSS), Friends of Kannur Expatriate (FOKE), Tamilnadu Engineers Forum, The Dancing Divas, D'illusions, Swastika Bharatanatyam Dance Academy, Upasana dance studio, Spark Dance Academy and Nrithyadhee School of Dance, captivated the audience.
Fun activities like the "Minute to Win It" game, Kids Traditional Fashion Show, Kerala Traditional Family Fashion Show, and a Kids' Coloring Contest added to the excitement. Attendees also enjoyed a traditional Onam Sadya meal prepared by Thakkara Restaurant.
Winners of the competitions were presented with prizes by representatives from the sponsors. Pookalam contest was sponsored by Oncost, Coloring contest by DOMS, 'Payasam' contest by GRB Ghee, Kids Fashion show by Al Rashed International Shipping Company and Family Fashion Show by ADDRESS Lifestyle.
The event was expertly hosted by Dr. Navniit Gandhi, Ms. Merlene Ann Babu, and Mr. Rakesh.
The theme "Freedom from Gadgets" was a key highlight, encouraging families to spend time together without electronic devices. Children participated in traditional games and activities, learning how to enjoy time away from screens.
A spontaneous flash mob by the D'illusions group further energized the crowd, adding a lively twist to an already entertaining day. Overall, the event successfully brought the Indian community together, making them feel connected to home through the celebration of Onam.