The Tamil community in Bahrain came together as one to celebrate its harvest festival Pongal with pomp and grandeur.
Thousands of cultural enthusiasts enjoyed the festivities that evoked a sense of nostalgia for the homeland.
The vibrant event, commemorating the harvest period, was staged at the Indian Club’s premises in Manama by the Bharathi Association.
Its president Vallam Basheer helped organise the programme along with other executive committee members and group officials.
Friday’s celebrations were divided into morning and evening sessions including the Pongal feast enjoyed by around 2,200 guests, including the Social Development Ministry Under-Secretary Ziyad Darwish. More than 23 vegetarian dishes were served to guests on a customary banana leaf.
Mr Darwish attended on behalf of Social Development Minister Osama Al Alawi. Speaking on the occasion, he conveyed Pongal greetings to the Tamil community and highlighted the significance of the ‘farmers’ festival’ widely marked by the diaspora across the globe.
He appreciated the community’s ‘valuable contribution’ to Bahrain and acknowledged the ancient historical links between India and the kingdom.
The festivities during the day continued with more than 60 performers presenting the traditional Kummi dance. Other performances included Parai Attam, Kavadi Attam, Karagattam, Oyilattam and village folk forms, all of which were brought alive by nearly 100 children.
A Kolam competition showcased traditional South Indian floor patterns crafted by the creative members. The Pongal pot ritual was also staged involving rice being boiled in milk outdoors in an earthen pot.
Games included the traditional Uri Adithal and tug of war. Sports for children across age categories and special competitions for women were organised as well.
Music by a DJ kept guests in great spirits throughout the day.
The evening session featured a high-energy musical and comedy show, which attracted around 2,000 music lovers. Popular Tamil film singers Sathyan Mahalingam and Srisha Vijayasekar mesmerised the audience with their soulful and foot-tapping performances.
Renowned comedians Chutti Aravind and Azhar entertained the crowd with their sensational and humorous acts, adding to the charm of the celebrations.
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