Doha: Engineers Forum (EF) Qatar’s Keralotsavam, held on Friday, 23 October, at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC), stood out as a spectacular celebration of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage, drawing an enthusiastic audience through its diverse programmes and impressive public participation.

With over 3,000 members, Engineers Forum is one of Qatar’s largest professional organisations and is celebrating its Silver Jubilee this year. Keralotsavam marked the launch of a year-long series of celebrations commemorating the organisation’s 25th anniversary under the theme “Elevate EF.”

The celebrations began at 7:00 AM with a vibrant Pookkalam competition featuring 19 alumni associations affiliated with Engineers Forum. Following the judging, the individual floral carpets were brought together, with additional varieties of flowers incorporated by the EF Pookkalam team and representatives of the participating alumni associations to create a magnificent mega Pookkalam. Measuring 14 metres in diameter, it was the largest floral carpet of its kind witnessed in Qatar, creating a breathtaking spectacle. The colourful floral masterpiece symbolised unity, fraternity and togetherness, reflecting the spirit of collaboration that defines Engineers Forum.

Popular Malayalam film actor Dhyan Sreenivasan was the chief guest at the celebrations. Distinguished guests included Dr Vaibhav A. Tandale, Head of Chancery at the Embassy of India in Qatar; Dr Achuth Sankar S. Nair, Vice Chairman of the Kerala State Higher Education Council; Dr Dinesh Kumar Koul, Attaché at the Embassy of India; Thaha Mohammed, President of the Indian Business and Professionals Council (IBPC); E.P. Abdul Rahman, President of the Indian Sports Centre; and A.P. Manikantan, President of the Indian Cultural Centre.

In the afternoon, a colourful procession led by Dhyan Sreenivasan captivated the audience with the vibrant rhythms of traditional Chenda Melam and captivating displays of Kerala’s indigenous art forms.

The official ceremony commenced with a welcome address by General Secretary Nidhin, followed by the presidential address by Ashiq Ahmed. Dhyan Sreenivasan lit the ceremonial lamp, joined by the distinguished guests, to formally inaugurate the event. He also delivered the inaugural address for Keralotsavam, while Dr Vaibhav A. Tandale officially launched the “Elevate EF” initiative. Dr Achuth Sankar S. Nair delivered the keynote address. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Arts Secretary Manoj Kumar.

The cultural programme began with Rhythm of India, a spectacular dance production presented by the EF Arts Wing, followed by a musical medley organised by the EF Music Club. The stage then came alive with a series of culturally rich performances by Team EF and the individual alumni associations AMACE, ANECX, MESCEQ, QMEA, CUBAQ, DAKES and TKMCEQ . The performances showcased Kerala’s vibrant artistic traditions through Thiruvathirakali, Kolkkali, Mangalamkali and group dances, enthralling the audience throughout the programme.

Trophies were presented by Dhyan Sreenivasan to QSCT, QGET and METS, which secured first, second and third places, respectively, in the morning’s Pookkalam competition. Ashique Ahmed,  Nidhin and  Shamnad from the EF leadership team participated in the prize distribution ceremony.

The evening reached another high point at 6:00 PM with an electrifying performance by Gandharvaas, featuring singers Sreerag and Nanda. Performing to a packed auditorium, the duo captivated the audience with their musical brilliance, inspiring enthusiastic participation and spontaneous dancing. Their performance created an unforgettable experience for music lovers, delighting the audience visually, musically and emotionally.

The celebrations culminated in an energetic DJ performance by DJ Karthik, bringing the curtains down on an extraordinary 15-hour festival at 10:00 PM.

Keralotsavam 2026 thus emerged as a memorable milestone in the Silver Jubilee journey of Engineers Forum Qatar, celebrating the richness of Kerala’s culture while reinforcing the values of unity, fellowship and collective achievement. The event also set the tone for the organisation’s next chapter under the banner of “Elevate EF”, looking ahead to a future of greater engagement, innovation and community building.

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