The festival began with a solemn thanksgiving Eucharist presided over by Fr. John Christy SDB, after which Father Deva Joe, the Vice Provincial and Youth Pastoral Delegate, declared the festival open. In the morning, immediately after singing Tamzh Thai Vazhthu (homage to Mother Tamil), each youth group cooked Pongal in the traditional way. Folk artists Manickam & Co from Polur village showcased the rich cultural dances to our youngsters. `Veera Silambu` (the Martial art of Tamilnadu) was demonstrated by a young team, headed by Silambam Master Mr. Babu. Youngsters organized the entire traditional games for all the participants. A delicious breakfast and a traditional rich vegetarian lunch were served to all. The youngsters were wonderstruck by the demonstration of our rich cultural heritage through dances, martial arts, games and food. Towards the end, the youngsters observed a minute`s silence for the deceased farmers and took a resolution by taking the oath that said: "We will uplift our farmers by consuming farm products and regain our forgotten tradition by learning our martial arts, dances, games and food habits". The entire festival was planned and executed by the Province Youth Council (28 youngsters from various Salesian presences), headed by Father Mani Lazar SDB. Our sincere thanks to all the youth groups and youth directors for participating in this event in a meaningful and memorable way.