ONAM CELEBRATIONS 2014

[ARUN VARMA]

Dear DAKKSH Patrons,

Together we all sent away 'Mahabali' for one more year.

This year's ONAM get together was held on Sep 14, 2014 at the club house of Supreme Enclave, Mayur Vihar.

The celebrations began in a muted way, as many members were not in a shape to perform Kaikottikkali, after the grueling session in the kitchen.

Yet, "Pookkalam" occupied the centre of the hall in its full splendor.

The function started with a bhajan by Usha (Prakash).

This year's celebrations began with a rather curious academic question: Vijayettan pointed out that if one has to believe by the folklore of Vamana and Mahabali, ONAM cannot be an event that took place in Kerala. Vijayettan threw the challenge at all saying that the popular belief is that Kerala was founded by Parasurama, who was a later incarnation of Vishnu after Vamana!!

In the games and entertainment category, a new item was introduced. Participants were given a situation, which could have multiple/whacky/hilarious answers. It took time for the participants to get into lighter vein and respond. Niranjan, proved to be a thorough gentleman, through his repeated assertions to several situations.

In Dumb Charades, Daya won with the maximum right answers.

Most unique feature of the celebration was the Sadya itself. Departing from the convention, this year's Sadya was prepared by the members themselves. And what a reception, it received!!

To measure the "satisfaction quotient", a secret ballot was held to judge the best dish.

Rita's "Mambazha Pulisseri" and Usha (Prakash)'s "Koottukari" stole the march. Sambar, Kalan and Payasam followed in the pecking order.

The true reflection of a good "sadya" was evident from the fact that the patrons chose to stay on with a round of Antakshari.

It was also decided to have periodic executive committee meeting, which will be held in one of the members' place

 

Rgds,

Arun