Vice President Flags Off Spectacular Onam Finale in Thiruvananthapuram

Kerala’s capital transformed into a vibrant cultural stage on Sunday as the week-long Onam celebrations concluded with a colourful procession showcasing the state’s rich artistic traditions.

Flagged off by Vice President C P Radhakrishnan, the iconic closing-day procession drew thousands of spectators, including tourists, as artists from across Kerala and other parts of the country brought traditional performances to the streets.

Governor Rajendra Viswanath Arlekar and Chief Minister V D Satheesan presented mementoes to the Vice President during the event. Speaker Thiruvanchur Radhakrishnan, several Cabinet ministers, Mayor V V Rajesh, actor Asif Ali, elected representatives and senior officials were among those who witnessed the procession from the main pavilion at Lok Bhavan.

Organised by the state Tourism Department from August 23, the festivities culminated in a spectacular display of classical, folk and ethnic traditions. The procession travelled through Vellayambalam, Museum, Palayam and Statue, attracting large crowds along the route.

Performances of Theyyam, Kathakali and Pulikali formed major highlights, while Mohiniyattam, Oppana, Margamkali, Kolkali and Mayilattam added to the pageantry. Cultural troupes from Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir also participated.

More than 69 floats and installations presented by government departments, quasi-government bodies and cooperative organisations depicted Kerala’s traditions, social progress and contemporary themes. Tight security arrangements were put in place across the city, with thousands of police personnel deployed and traffic restrictions imposed along the procession route.

The event also witnessed the full rendition of Vande Mataram, prompting clarification from Tourism and Cultural Affairs Minister P C Vishnunadh. He said the rendition was part of established protocol for programmes attended by the President, Vice President or Prime Minister and did not reflect the state government’s position. The celebrations concluded with the illuminated streets of Thiruvananthapuram reflecting Kerala’s cultural diversity and festive spirit.