WITH autumn the month that harvest festivals are traditionally celebrated in the UK, a group of around 100 people from the Indian state of Kerala have been bringing some of their own culture and colour to Powys, by celebrating Onam.
Onam is the traditional harvest festival of Kerala, and members of the Rhayader UK Mallus brought their vibrant colours, music and food to the tiny community of Pant-y-Dwr on Saturday, September 28.
The event was held at Pant-y-Dwr Community Hall and hailed a great success, bringing together Indian families and individuals from the local community to participate, with Rhayader county councillor Angela Davies the chief guest.
The programme featured a variety of cultural performances, including traditional Kerala dances, music and a spectacular Onam Sadhya – a grand feast served on banana leaves, and comprising an array of authentic vegetarian dishes.
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Families and children participated in traditional games, while the ceremonial floral arrangement, ‘Pookalam’, added to the festive atmosphere.
A welcome speech was given by Stanley Thomas, with a vote of thanks from Jacob Tharakan.
Stanley, one of the event organisers, explained how the Rhayader UK Mallus is a group of around 100 members, including children, who live in the Rhayader and Llandrindod Wells areas.
“The Rhayader UK Mallus was formed in 2021, when several families from Kerala, India, began relocating to Rhayader to work at Crosfield House care home,” said Stanley.
“Over time, it evolved into a close-knit group primarily aimed at fostering family togetherness and celebrating cultural traditions.
“Our group provides a space for the next generation to learn about and embrace their ancestral heritage, ensuring the customs and values of Kerala are passed on.
“In addition to celebrating our own traditions, we’ve made it a priority to integrate with the local community, learning about and sharing in the local culture. This has helped to create a mutual understanding of cross-cultural values.
“Since our formation, we’ve hosted three Onam festivals, alongside Christmas and New Year’s celebrations for the past couple of years.
Councillor Davies expressed her admiration for the spirit of cultural unity and inclusiveness displayed at the event. In her speech, she highlighted the importance of such festivals in fostering community bonds and promoting cross-cultural understanding.
Event organisers thanked all attendees and volunteers for their efforts in making the celebration a memorable one, noting that the gathering had successfully brought a slice of Kerala’s rich heritage to the heart of Wales.
The event ended on a high note, with attendees expressing their eagerness for more such cultural exchanges in the future.
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