Ohmkaram, a St. Louis based non-profit organization of Kerala (South India) Hindus, celebrated Vishu (Malayali new year) in a grand manner at the Mahatma Gandhi Center in Ballwin on April 16, 2011. About 100 people attended the festivities. Commonly acknowledged as the first day of the zodiac almanac, Vishu is celebrated on the first day of the Medam month, based on the Malayalam calendar.
The highlight of the day long event was a packed cultural program held in the evening, consisting of prayers, songs, dances, historical and religious drama skits. The celebration concluded with a grand dinner feast with more than 25 traditional dishes on the menu.
A stage program showcased the talents of many children ages four to 16. The children earnestly demonstrated their Malayali culture to proud parents and guests. Several adults also participated in entertaining performances. Priya Nair provided a descriptive narrative for the audience as the emcee.
“Vishu is the most eagerly awaited festival for us, and the people of Kerala celebrate it from dawn to dusk”, said Ohmkaram President Raj Unni.
“In Kerala, Vishuvela is an extension of the celebration carrying on for days, and we have bursting of padakkam (firecrackers) too,” he added, highlighting the significance of the celebration for Malayalis.
Prior to the cultural program, several traditional rituals were conducted, including viewing of the Vishukkani (arrangement of auspicious religious items on a metal vessel called uruli) and Kaineetum presentation by Natesan Manchira (gift of gold coins from a respected elder to children).
Celebrations began in earnest much earlier in the morning, when many volunteers got together for a fun filled sadyavattam (community cooking) - a common scene in Kerala during weddings, religious functions and cultural events.
“We recreated moments of a traditional get together with a feast prepared entirely onsite,” said an enthusiastic co-coordinator and executive committee member Biju Kurian. He described the effort as a “nostalgic, unique experience just like back home in Kerala."
"Fond memories of our childhood and youth - a day filled with happiness and energy, a memorable day" summed up Vimal Nair, Ohmkaram secretary and the event's organizing chairman.
Ohmkaram was formed in 2006 and has held many events in appreciation of its Kerala cultural roots, including Malayalam language classes. It aims to encourage participation in Kerala traditions (especially amongst the youth) and foster unity and cooperation within its community in the area.
