Doha: Sanskriti Qatar’s ‘Onolsavam 2026’ was celebrated on a grand scale at Podar Pearl School, Al Meshaf, bringing together members of the Indian expatriate community for a vibrant celebration of Kerala’s culture, traditions and festive spirit.
Indian Ambassador to Qatar Dr. K. Srikar Reddy inaugurated the cultural gathering held as part of the celebrations. Sanskriti President Sabith Zaheer presided over the event, while former Kerala Legislative Assembly Speaker A.N. Shamseer delivered the keynote address.
Film actor and performer Jayaraj Warrier hosted the cultural programmes. Indian Embassy First Secretary Ashwin Kumar, NORKA Roots Director C.V. Rappai, ICC President A.P. Manikandan, former Kerala Expatriate Welfare Board Director E.M. Sudheer and Vanithavedi Secretary Jecitha Nadappurayil were among the dignitaries present. Prominent personalities from Doha’s social, cultural and business sectors also attended the celebrations.
Sanskriti General Secretary Shamseer Arikkulam welcomed the gathering, while Onam Celebration Committee Convener Yousuf Povil proposed the vote of thanks. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from Sanskriti members, families and representatives of the wider expatriate community.
During the programme, A.N. Shamseer presented a memento on behalf of Sanskriti to young singer Sivapriya Suresh, a member of the Sanskriti family and winner of ‘Star Singer’. Prajeesh Nidunkuni, a Sanskriti member, was also honoured for his efforts in saving the life of a person who had fallen into a river.
A variety of artistic and sports competitions highlighting Kerala’s rich cultural heritage were organised as part of Onolsavam 2026. The celebrations featured colourful Pookkalam, the ceremonial arrival of Mahabali, Thiruvathira, group dances, Mangalam Kali and a traditional Panchari Melam performance by Kanal Melam.
Another major highlight of the celebration was the mega Onam feast, attended by around 2,000 people. The traditional feast and cultural programmes created a festive atmosphere while bringing together families and community members in the spirit of Onam.
The celebrations also featured a special musical tribute to legendary singers Janaki Amma and S.P. Balasubrahmanyam, with prominent singers from Qatar’s expatriate community taking part. The grand celebration showcased Kerala’s cultural traditions while strengthening the spirit of unity and community among expatriates in Qatar.
