Thiruvananthapuram, September 18, 2013: The citywide Onam festivities continued the day after Thiruvonam, with programmes organised by the Tourism Department at various venues drawing large crowds despite the rain.

Central Stadium, the main venue, witnessed a ‘ganamela’ led by playback singers Karthik, Naresh Iyer, Rimi Tomy, and Manjari.

It was followed by a dance performance by Sarayu and team.

The Poojappura Maidan offered a musical treat to the audience when Vaikom Vijayalakshmi, G. Sreeram, and Sithara rendered 24 popular songs in Malayalam, English and Tamil.

Folk arts

The Sooryakanthi mini-stage, Thiruvarangu, and Nattarangu at Kanakakkunnu proved that folk arts in the State still had a handsome audience. Chavittunadakam by Thambi Payyappilli, Ottan Thullal by Mannacheri Dasan, Pulluvan Pattu, Thottam Pattu, Alaamikali, Poorakali, and Padayani were the highlights of folk performances held as part of the celebrations on Tuesday.

Another highlight of the day’s programmes was the play ‘Sahridaya Sadassu,’ staged by Sahithi Theatres, at VJT Hall.

Source: The Hindu, September 18, 2013