Mumbai: Mumbai’s Malayali community is celebrating Onam today, September 5, with vibrant cultural programmes, elaborate floral decorations, and traditional feasts known as sadhya.

**Spectacular Pookkalam at CSMT**

To mark the occasion, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) is showcasing a stunning 600-square-foot pookkalam (floral decoration) on Friday morning. This impressive installation is created yearly by the All Mumbai Malayali Association (AMMA), and 2024 marks the 10th consecutive year of this tradition.

**Theme: ‘Human Peace’ Commemorating 26/11 Victims**

This year’s pookkalam carries the poignant theme ‘Human Peace’ as a floral tribute to the victims of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. The CSMT, one of the sites targeted during the attacks, stands as a symbol of the city’s resilient spirit and unity.

Jojo Thomas, president of AMMA, a socio-cultural organisation devoted to fostering cultural harmony and social welfare, said, “The CSMT pookkalam is more than a floral carpet; it is a vibrant symbol of Mumbai’s unconquerable spirit. By dedicating this year’s tribute to the 26/11 victims at such a historic site, we reaffirm that compassion and brotherhood will always triumph.”

**Volunteers Work Overnight to Create Floral Rangoli**

The creation of the floral rangoli began late Thursday night after the bustling railway station had quieted for the evening. Over 100 volunteers meticulously arranged hundreds of kilograms of fresh marigolds, jasmine, and roses into an intricate design. The pookkalam is ready to greet Mumbai’s commuters and visitors at dawn.

**A Decade-Long Cherished Tradition**

Since its inception in 2015, the CSMT pookkalam has grown into a beloved Mumbai tradition. It is widely recognized as Asia’s most-viewed and photographed floral installation on Thiruvonam, the final day of the 10-day Onam festival. The pookkalam embodies the legend of King Mahabali’s homecoming to a realm of truth and prosperity—a message that resonates deeply with Mumbai’s diverse population.

**Cultural Programmes Continue**

In addition to the floral tribute, the Sri Shanmukhananda Fine Arts and Sangeetha Sabha is hosting a classical dance programme on September 7 at its auditorium to celebrate Onam. This event is part of the year-long Carnatika Keraleeyam festival.

The Sabha will also honour Kathakali legend Vadakke Manalath Govindan Nair, popularly known as ‘Kalamandalam Gopi’, with its highest accolade, the ‘Sangeetha Kala Vibhushan’.

**Honouring a Legendary Artist**

Padma Shri awardee Kalamandalam Gopi is renowned for his portrayal of pacha roles—noble characters from Hindu epics—in Kathakali for over half a century. His contribution to Indian classical arts continues to inspire generations.

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*Celebrate the spirit of Onam in Mumbai with cultural richness, unity, and heartfelt remembrance.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/onam-2025-mumbais-malayali-community-celebrates-with-floral-pookkalam-cultural-feasts-and-dance