Bandar Seri Begawan - The sizeable Malayalees community from the tiny southern Indian state of Kerala now living in Brunei celebrated Onam, their national festival at the International Convention Centre on Sunday.
The guest of honour was the Indian High Commissioner to Brunei Mr Riewad V Warjri.
Speeches and enthralling cultural performances followed. Guests were also treated to a delicious fare with particular tangy Malayalam flour.
It was a night enjoyed by all.
There are about 1,500 people from Kerala now working in Brunei.
Most are professionals like doctors, engineers, teachers and computer specialists out of a total 10,000 Indians from other parts of the subcontinent living in the sultanate.
Onam is their largest festival. Although it is associated with harvest it has taken on a mythological hue. The story goes that the festival cherishes the memory of the legendary King Mahabali and his prosperous reign during which, perfect communal harmony and prosperity prevailed.
It was a glorious period and people were happy.
It was said that the people did not have to lock their houses at night, as theft and robbery were unknown. Likewise, the King was generosity personified that he would give away everything to the needy.
The King Mahabali`s popularity was at its height and led to the envy of the Gods.
This golden age ended when Vamana, the dwarf incarnation of Lord Mahavishnu expelled him from his throne to the netherworld.
Vishnu`s fatal third step pushed him to the netherworld, but before banishing him to the Pathalam, Vishnu granted him a wish.
Since he was attached to his kingdom and his people, he was allowed to return once a year from exile.
Onam is the celebration that marks the homecoming of King Mahabali.
It is the day when a grateful Kerala pays a glorious tribute to the memory of this benign king who gave everything for his subjects.
Source: www.brudirect.com (17 November 2007)
