ST LOUIS: Ohmkaram, a St. Louis based non-profit voluntary organization aimed at promoting Kerala Hindu tradition and values, celebrated Vishu, the Malayalee New Year, in a grand manner at the Mahatma Gandhi Center in Ballwin, MO on April 18. The function was attended by more than 100 people.
Observed on the first day of the Medam month (the ninth month in a traditional Malayalee calendar), Vishu is not only the Zodiac New Year, but also a harvest festival.
A cultural program for the evening was preceded by the viewing of Vishukani, a ritual arrangement of auspicious articles intended to signify prosperity, which includes a picture of Lord Krishna, a traditional Keralite lamp, grains, fruits and vegetables, metal mirror and yellow flowers.
Following this, M. Krishnan distributed kaineetam (gold coins) to the children of Ohmkaram family members. The cultural program was very well received by the audience, a feast for the eyes and ears. Also featured for the evening was the ever popular, traditional Vishu Sadhya with over 25 delicacies – a feast for the taste buds.
In line with its objective of promoting Kerala Hindu culture, the program theme was aimed at creating awareness about the festivals celebrated in each month of the traditional Malayalee calendar. The various performances depicted these monthly festivities – from Onam in the first month of Chingam, to the pious month of Karkadakam (the Ramayana masam).
The performances included traditional and folk dances, singing of popular film songs, recitation of shlokas and a saxophone recital. Children of all ages, as well as adults, participated in these performances with great enthusiasm while keeping the crowd entertained.
All the while, a meticulously hand made coconut tree swayed in the background, adding to the traditional ambience of home town Kerala.
“Thanks to everyone, it turned out to be a wonderful Vishu celebration”, summed up Madhu Madhavan, vice-president of Ohmkaram.
Post event, free family portraits were also offered, capturing guests dressed in their traditional finery.
Ohmkaram formed in 2006, aims to encourage participation in Kerala traditions (especially amongst the youth) and foster unity and cooperation within its community in the area.
Ashwin Patel
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