Indian Consul General Sayeed Ahmed Baba opened the show that featured a wide variety of art forms from the south Indian state, including oppana, mohiniyattam and margam kali. As many as 72 Keralite groups joined hands in organizing the event.

Kalidas Pudumana, a well-known playwright, praised the hard work of Keralites living in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries. “When I go back to Kerala I will carry with me a handful of sand from this country that contains the sweat of Keralites and show it to our lazy people back home,” Kalidas said.

Senior community leader Vallanchira Muhammad Ali was honored during the festival, which was held after a break of three years. Famous singer Vilayil Faseela attended the function, which was presided over V.K.A. Rauf.