Visual treat

HYDERABAD: Onam celebrations were organized by ‘Maithri’— a Malayali association on Sunday at Thirumalghery, Secunderabad.The event kick started with the traditional lighting of the holy lamp by actor Devan. An exquisite, colourful ‘Pookalam’- a floral rangoli  was laid to welcome the overwhelming crowds. A number of cultural activities ranging from traditional Theyyam and Kaikottikali to the comedy and music shows were performed.  Anil Kumar and group staged Theyyam.  “We get calls from Malayali associations all across the country to perform Theyyam,” says Anil.Girls from Hyderabad Central University’s Sarojini Naidu School of performing arts performed Kaikottikali. Playback singers Anvar Sadat and Gayatri sang some popular filmy numbers to keep the crowd engaged. Later, they were served Onasadya, the Onam feast. The conventional serving of multiple dishes on a banana leaf on special days is also a visual treat.