High Commissioner’s Speech in the programme organised by Malayalee Association to celebrate ONAM Festival on 30.08.2026

Mr. Ajeesh Thomas, Chairman of Malayali Association of Lilongwe

Members of Executive Committee of the Association 

Distinguished members of the Indian community and the Malayali Diaspora, 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good afternoon, Namaskaram !

It gives me immense pleasure to be here with all of you on the joyous occasion of Onam. I extend my warmest greetings and best wishes to every member of the Malayali community in Malawi. I sincerely thank the Malayali Association Lilongwe, and its Chairman, Mr. Ajeesh Thomas, for inviting me and my team to share this special moment and celebration  with you.

Onam is much more than a festival. It is a celebration of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage, traditions, harmony and togetherness. It brings families and communities together and reminds us of the timeless values of generosity, equality, compassion and mutual respect.

The story of King Mahabali, which lies at the heart of Onam, conveys a beautiful message. The legend speaks of a golden era when people lived with happiness, prosperity and a strong sense of equality under the King Mahabali.

महाबलिप्रसादेन सर्वकल्याणमस्तु ते ! It means that by the blessings of King Mahabali, may you be granted all forms of well-being and prosperity.

The spirit of Onam therefore reminds us of the importance of creating a society where everyone is respected, valued and included.

The colourful Pookalam, the graceful Thiruvathira,  and the delicacy of  Onam Sadya, all bring alive the richness of Kerala’s cultural heritage and add the value and vibrancy to the Onam.

The most beautiful aspect of this festival is to bring people together—families, friends, neighbours and communities irrespective of caste, creeds and religions. Celebrating Onam here in Lilongwe, thousands of miles away from Kerala, demonstrates how deeply our cultural traditions connect us to our roots while also allowing us to share them with our friends in Malawi.

The Malayali community has been making a valuable contribution in Malawi’s growth and development through their professional services, community activities and cultural initiatives. You have strengthened the bonds of friendship between out two countries. Events such as today's celebration also provide an excellent opportunity for the younger generation to learn about their roots, rituals and customs  and appreciate their heritage.

I am glad  to see families and children participating in this celebration which passes the  knowledge of traditions from one generation to the next. I encourage all of you to preserve your cultural identity through continue nurturing language, art forms, cuisine, music, dance and other  traditions.

On behalf of the High Commission of India, I once again congratulate the Malayali Association Lilongwe for organising this memorable celebration.

May the spirit of Onam bring peace, happiness, prosperity and harmony to every family present here. May it strengthen the bonds of friendship and togetherness within our community and between the peoples of India and Malawi.

Let us celebrate Onam with joy, gratitude and the spirit of sharing.

Happy Onam to all! May God bless you all happiness and good health. 

 Jai Hind ! Thank you  !