The United Malayalee Association (UMA), Bhopal, inaugurated Kerala Fest 2025 at the Bittan Market Dussehra Ground, marking the beginning of a four-day celebration of Kerala’s rich art, culture, and cuisine. The festival aimed to foster cultural harmony, strengthen the bond between Kerala and Madhya Pradesh, and celebrate India’s diversity and unity, reflecting the spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.”
OD Joseph, President of UMA, extended a cordial welcome to Governor, along with other distinguished dignitaries, characterizing the festival as an emblem of communal cohesion and a testament to the Association’s 41-year legacy of dedicated service, steadfast commitment to social welfare, and unwavering promotion of cultural harmony and national integration.
The event was inaugurated by Governor Mangubhai Patel, who noted that Kerala Fest 2025 was more than a festival — it was a celebration of tradition, where Kerala’s heritage blended seamlessly with Madhya Pradesh’s culture, highlighting how diverse communities coexist and strengthen the nation’s shared identity.
The event was chaired by Narendra Singh Tomar, Speaker of the MP Legislative Assembly, and graced by Vishwas Sarang, Minister for Co-operation, Sports, and Youth Welfare.
It was also honored by Pravas Kumar Subudhi, Chief General Manager, State Bank of India, Madhya Pradesh. Mrs. C. Saraswati, Chief General Manager of NABARD, and John Kingsley, Secretary of the Department of Water Resources and Narmada Valley Development Authority, Government of Madhya Pradesh, added further distinction to the occasion.
The festival featured a grand Thiruvathirakali performance by over 100 women from Bhopal, celebrating Kerala’s classical grace, devotion, feminine energy, and unity. The dancers, dressed in traditional Mundu Neriyathu with jasmine-adorned hair, presented rhythmic movements and graceful gestures, capturing the essence of Kerala’s cultural heritage.
The renowned ritualistic dance drama Mudiyettu, dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali and recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, was performed by artists from Kerala. This vibrant presentation combined dance, music, painting, and drama to depict the mythological battle between Bhadrakali and the demon Darika, symbolizing the eternal triumph of good over evil.
Kerala’s folk dances were also showcased, reflecting the state’s rich cultural traditions, vibrant costumes, and rhythmic music, enthralling the audience with authentic regional expressions.
The ancient martial art of Kalaripayattu was performed by legendary artists from Kerala, demonstrating physical agility, weapon mastery, and meditative focus. The performance embodied the perfect harmony of body, mind, and spirit, symbolizing Kerala’s valor and cultural depth.
Kerala Fest 2025 also featured a Food and Handicraft Fair, showcasing Kerala’s authentic flavors and artisanal crafts. Visitors savored traditional dishes, including the iconic Sadya served on banana leaves, Appam with stew, Puttu and Kadala Curry, and a variety of sweets, while exploring stalls offering handloom textiles, coir products, jewelry, and Ayurvedic items. The fair highlighted the remarkable work of NABARD-supported Self Help Groups (SHGs), presenting handmade products and local innovations, promoting sustainable livelihoods and empowering women entrepreneurs.
The first day of Kerala Fest 2025 concluded to overwhelming applause from the audience, who celebrated Kerala’s rich cultural heritage and appreciated the immersive and authentic performances.
