Malayali expats in Abu Dhabi rejoice as Kerala turns 60

60 candles lit to celebrate the 60th Kerala Day held at Kerala Social Center in Abu Dhabi on November 1, 2016.

Indian Media Abu Dhabi and the Kerala Social Centre held cultural events to mark the auspicious occasion of Kerala Piravi.

By Ashwani Kumar

Published: Tue 1 Nov 2016, 7:00 PM

Last updated: Tue 1 Nov 2016, 9:42 PM

Keralites in the Capital came together on Tuesday to celebrate the 60^th foundation day of their south Indian state.
Indian Media Abu Dhabi and the Kerala Social Centre held cultural events to mark the auspicious occasion of Kerala Piravi.
Sweets and lights - a Diwali combo - was the flavour of this day too. As many as 60 earthen pots were lit by children. It was followed by songs highlighting the beauty, heritage and rich culture of the state of Kerala - 'God's Own Country'.
Sweets were exchanged and all greeted each other. Kerala Social Centre was flushed with festive fervour. The highlight of the cultural events was a play organised by Kerala Social Centre. Songs were sung by Balavedi - the children's wing.
People from all walks of society - businessmen, writers, blue-collar workers, students, housewives and more joined the fun-filled activity to mark the 60^th birthday in a grand manner.
Indian Media Abu Dhabi president Anil C. Idiculla said it is a great occasion that has brought everyone on same platform.
What is Kerala Piravi?
The south Indian state of Kerala was formed on November 1, 1956. The day is known as 'Piravi Dinam' (Birthday). The state of Kerala was formed by combining Malayalam-speaking independent provinces of Malabar, Cochin and Travancore.
ashwani@khaleejtimes.com