DAMMAM, 14 November 2006 — Non-resident Keralites (NRKs) have contributed significantly to the growth and development of the state during the last 50 years and played a key role in keeping the sociocultural field of Kerala vibrant by bringing in new ideas and experiences from abroad, said T.K. Hamza, a member of the Indian Parliament.
He made this comment while inaugurating the Kerala Fest, organized by Navodaya in Halfmoon Beach. Kerala has made great strides in all fields of life especially in the areas of uplifting the weaker sections of society, empowerment of women and education, he added.
The event commemorating the 50th anniversary of the state was organized by a coordination committee headed by Majeed Chathamveli with representatives from all other active NRK organizations. Navodaya chief Abraham Valiyakala read out congratulatory messages from Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan, opposition leader Oommen Chandy and veteran cultural activist Sukumar Azheekode.
Chathamveli chaired the meeting during which Chief Editor C.V. Jose introduced a special issue of “Prabhatham” magazine highlighting the 50 years of Kerala. P.J.J. Antony, a prominent writer, spoke on the occasion and released the special issue by giving a copy to P.A.M. Harris of Malayalam News.
Navodaya’s President E.M. Kabeer spoke on the philanthropic activities of the organization. General Secretary George Varghese welcomed the gathering and Pradeep Kottiyam proposed a vote of thanks. An exhibition with participation from various cultural associations and publishers was staged.
A special food festival highlighting cuisines from different districts of Kerala attracted wide attention. A wide array of educational, scientific and literary books was on display for sale. An exhibition of traditional farming equipment from Kerala detailing its development through history was painstakingly produced and presented by theDallah unit of Navodaya.
The numismatology stand displaying coins and currencies from all around the world, was another major attraction.
Dr. P.V.S. Nampoothirippad inaugurated a children’s painting competition. Srinivas Amarambalam, Muhammed Najathi, K.M. Basheer, A.H. Ashraf Ali, P.M. Najeeb and Shoojai Pallikkara opened various stalls.
Cultural and musical programs too were presented. Manul from Jubail won an Alto car in the lucky draw.
Navodaya’s Jeddah Chapter held a similar event at Al-Mawarid International School yesterday. T.K. Hamza opened the festivities.
Meanwhile, the Indian Cultural Congress in Jeddah said it would organize 50-day programs to mark the golden jubilee.
Programs include quiz competition, essay writing, short story writing, poetry and music competition, seminars, sports and games. For more information contact Sherif Kunju 0506628845 and Joshi Varghese 0502060523.
