ST. LOUIS: Ohmkaram, a non profit organization of the Malayali community in the St Louis area, celebrated its eighth anniversary on January 11 at the Mahatma Gandhi Center in Ballwin, MO.
Besides the business end of things, the evening saw renditions of the American and Indian national anthems, prayer and lighting of an auspicious lamp, fun and games for the young and old, release of its much anticipated annual Gitanjali souvenir magazine, a grand home-style dinner, finally culminating in a fun dance masti.
The Malayalam School of St. Louis, an Ohmkaram affiliate, was also recognized for its dedicated teachers and enthusiastic students. The school is in its seventh year of existence, averaging about 20-odd students of all age groups, catering to beginners and advance levels.
Nominations of new leaders and declaration of finances were conducted for the young organization with a promise to work hard to increase its current base of 40-strong families and improve communication. Ohmkaram has consistently celebrated its anniversary cum AGM, Vishu (Kerala New Year) and Onam (Harvest Festival) since its inception, in addition to an annual family friendly picnic.
Ohmkaram aims to establish itself as a vibrant and active forum to socialize and facilitate Kerala religious, cultural, and literary activities. It also seeks to keep the younger generation rooted in Malayali traditions. It makes special efforts welcoming members of all interested in “all things Kerala”, regardless of color, creed or ethnicity.
Ohmkaram is also committed to providing scholarships to deserving students in Kerala on an annual basis. So far, the organization has sponsored two students in 2009 and 2012. This year, it is embarking on an ambitious fundraising project as well as streamlining its goals, all aimed at long term sustainability. The general public and all interested parties are cordially invited to donate generously towards this cause.
Charitable activities, informal monthly gatherings, spiritual discourses and Malayalam movies are some of its other activities. As part of its commitment to good citizenry and community relations, efforts are being made to increase area voluntary activities, including blood donations and feeding the poor.
Ashwin Patel
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