NEWS
Vaduthalotsavam 2024: DB Youth Centre Celebrates Unity, Tradition, and Cultural Heritage during Onam Days
The Don Bosco Youth Centre, Vaduthala, Koch, hosted “Don Bosco Vaduthalotsavam 2024,” a four-day celebration marking the festival of Onam from September 13 to 16. The event, which was open to people from all walks of life, served as a platform to highlight community spirit, tradition, and Kerala’s cultural heritage, fostering a sense of belonging and unity.
The festivities began on September 13 with a grand Proclamation Rally. Youth Center members and local participants paraded through the streets of Vaduthala, signaling the start of the celebration. The rally, filled with traditional symbols and banners, invited the public to join the four-day festival, creating an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation.
The second day, September 14, the much-anticipated Snehasparsham (loving touch) initiative was inaugurated. This noble program aims to support dialysis patients economically, demonstrating the Youth Centre’s commitment to social responsibility. Alongside the humanitarian initiative, there were cultural and competitive activities. The All Kerala Floral Carpet Competition saw participants from across the state creating beautiful and intricate designs with flowers, displaying Kerala’s rich artistic traditions. The Tug-of-War competition also brought out the competitive spirit, with teams showcasing their strength and determination, cheered on by an enthusiastic audience.
Thiruvonam (actual day of Onam) Day, celebrated on September 15, was filled with spiritual enthusiasm, cultural pride, and joyful festivities. The day began with a Solemn Eucharistic Celebration, animated by the Youth Center members, bringing together the faithful in a moment of prayer and thanksgiving. The morning was filled with traditional Onam games, designed especially for the Youth Center members, fostering a sense of unity and fun. In the evening, a solemn rally was held in the streets, presenting Kerala's rich cultural heritage. The rally was a visual treat, with traditional costumes, dance performances, and folk music capturing the essence of Kerala’s history and culture. A spectacular Music Night, led by the famous troupe Pala Super Beats, brought the curtain down for the day. Their energetic and melodious performance enthralled the crowd, blending traditional and contemporary music in a fitting tribute to the festival.
The grand finale on September 16 took place in the evening and was a celebration of Kerala’s rich traditional arts and cultural unity. The evening began with an impressive Kalaripayattu (martial art) performance, showcasing the skills of practitioners of this ancient art form. One of the highlights was the Mega Thiruvathira, a graceful dance performed by 103 women ranging from 4 to 72 years old, symbolizing unity across generations and communities. Other traditional dance forms, including Kaikotti Kali, added to the day’s cultural richness, instilling a sense of pride and appreciation for Kerala's heritage. The celebrations ended with the Malayali Manka competition, where participants embodied the grace and beauty of Kerala’s traditional attire, wrapping up the event on a high note.
Thanks to Fr. Gilton Manuel SDB, the director of the Don Bosco Youth Centre, for his tireless efforts in preparing for this event over the past month, in close collaboration with the Youth Centre leadership. Also, gratitude is extended to Fr. Shibu Davis SDB, the Rector of Don Bosco Vaduthala, for his support throughout the event.