members of Kerala Samajam today celebrated Onam

The members of Kerala Samajam today celebrated Onam with fanfare at the Pastoral Centre of Christ the King Cathedral in Sector 19.

Over 700 Keralites, most of them dressed in their traditional Malyalam attires, thronged the venue. Apart from a colourful, traditional cultural programme, a sumptuous feast of traditional Malayalee dishes was served to the guests. Though Onam is on September 5, the festivities started today itself.

The festivities were inaugurated by Kumara Verma, Chairman of Department of Indian Theatre, by lighting the traditional lamp. Pawan Kumar Bansal, Minister of State for Finance, was the chief guest. Various other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.

A sumptuous feast, comprising 21 vegetarian delicacies, was the highlight of the day. Served on banana leaves, the dishes were prepared by the families of the Kerala Samajam. A rangoli depicting Kathakali, created by different flower petals was also appreciated by the visitors.

Speaking on the occasion, Bansal assured the audience that the Sampark Kranti Express would be made a bi-weekly train. He said the facilities at the Chandigarh railway station would be enhanced in the coming days.

Earlier, Samajam president C. Haridas Menon welcomed the guests on behalf of the Kerala Samajam.