Annai Tamil Mandram Celebrates Grand Pongal Festival in Bahrain

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

Annai Tamil Mandram, a prominent social service organization in Bahrain, hosted a vibrant Pongal festival celebration on Friday, January 24, 2025, at the Indian Club, Manama.

The festivities commenced with an authentic live Pongal cooking session, a cherished tradition among Tamil people to express gratitude to the Sun and nature for supporting agriculture and harvests. The event's venue was beautifully adorned, creating an atmosphere of cultural richness and joy.

The audience was treated to a series of colorful events, including a women’s kolam competition, engaging sports activities for boys and girls, and a tug-of-war contest for both men and women. One of the main attractions of the day was Uriyadithal, a traditional Tamil game that captivated everyone's attention.

The festival's highlight was the mesmerizing Kummiyattam, a traditional dance performed by 100 women carrying mulaipari (sprouted grains), which left the audience in awe.

Dignitaries gracing the event included His Excellency Mr. Yousef Lori, Director of Information for the Government of Bahrain, and His Excellency Mr. Muhammad Hussein Al Janahi, Member of Parliament of Bahrain. They were warmly welcomed and honored by Annai Tamil Mandram's President Mr. Senthil G.K., General Secretary Mr. Palanisamy, and Pongal Event Organizer Mr. Suresh.

The event witnessed an impressive turnout of approximately 3,000 attendees. Guests were treated to traditional Tamil delicacies served on banana leaves, adding to the cultural authenticity of the celebration. The day concluded with the distribution of prizes to winners of the various competitions.

Participants of all ages, from children to the elderly, joined in the festivities, transforming the day into a true celebration of Tamil heritage.

Annai Tamil Mandram expressed its heartfelt gratitude to all volunteers, administrators, and participants who contributed to the event's resounding success. Through this grand celebration, the organization proudly showcased Tamil cultural traditions to a global audience, reinforcing its commitment to preserving and promoting the rich heritage of Tamil Nadu.