Onam was celebrated on October 6, 2024, at Dr. Imkongliba Hall, Raj Bhavan, Kohima, bringing together the Malayali community to commemorate this significant festival. The Governor of Nagaland, La Ganesan, attended as the Chief Guest and expressed his delight in participating in the Onam celebration. He noted that although the festival had taken place about two weeks earlier in Kerala, he was thrilled to join the belated festivities, which evoke feelings of joy and remind those far from home of their roots.
The Governor highlighted the essence of Onam, stating, “Onam is a unique festival which promotes unity and harmony in the social fabric of the malayalis who celebrate Onam without any ill feeling of religion, caste or creed.” He emphasized that despite its connections to the Hindu mythology of King Mahabali and Vamana, people from diverse backgrounds celebrate Onam with enthusiasm and zeal. He remarked that such social gatherings are essential in strengthening community bonds and preserving cultural heritage.
He shared an observation from his recent visit to Kerala, noting that Malayalis, often adventurous in their pursuit of livelihoods worldwide, make it a point to return home during Onam to reconnect with family and community. The Governor also elaborated on the festival’s communal spirit, explaining that, in Kerala, both the rich and poor share the same feast on natural banana leaves, donning traditional attire rather than extravagant clothing.
During the celebrations, he praised the rich cultural presentations by the Malayali community and encouraged everyone to draw inspiration from the spirit of inclusivity and goodwill inherent in Onam, fostering a society that celebrates diversity and unity.