The Straits Times - Malayalees mark harvest festival
06 October 2008
MORE than 450 members of the Malayalee community gathered in Sembawang yesterday to celebrate Onam, a major south Indian harvest festival.
The celebration, which has its origins in the coastal state of Kerala, fetes the rewards of nature after a year of hard work. It is observed not only by Hindus but Muslims and Christians as well.
Yesterday's celebrations at the Sembawang Community Club were kicked off by Sembawang GRC MP and Minister for Health Khaw Boon Wan, who lit a traditional Indian oil lamp.
Joining the Malayalees in their celebrations were 20 residents from the Sree Narayana Mission Home for the Aged Sick in Yishun.
Guests were treated to traditional song-and-dance performances as well as a costume parade by children. This was followed by a traditional Malayalee feast featuring 16 vegetarian dishes.
Mrs Geetha Velaithan, 54, an administrative officer, said the event was a good way to get to know more members of her community. She added that the celebrations would also help the young understand the community's customs and practices. Singapore is home to some 25,000 Malayalees.
