The Kerala Business Forum (KBF) recently celebrated Onam, the harvest festival of the southern Indian state of Kerala, in Doha.
Indian ambassador Vipul was the chief guest for the event attended by close to 600 people.
Presidents of Indian Business and Professionals Council (Jaffar Sadiq), Indian Cultural Centre (Manikandan A P), Indian Community Benevolent Forum (Shanavas Bava) and Indian Sports Centre (E P Abdul Rahman) were present. The day-long event, which began with a flower carpet contest at 8am, culminated with songs and dances on stage.
The previous committee, along with the main sponsors City Exchange and Silver Storm Water Park based in Kerala were also recognised and felicitated by the ambassador.
KBF president Aji Kuriakose gave the Onam message, mentioned the milestones of the new committee and laid out future plans including a business help desk for members, KBF round table, a mobile app for members, and a privilege card.
Surya from Kalakshethra Chennai in India, choreographed and performed a special fusion dance which was a highlight of the event.
The traditional percussion ensemble chendamelam, thiruvathira dance, vallappaattu and kaikkottikali added festive mood to the event.
The flower carpet contest winners were Shimna & team, Tina & team and Sinil George & team, in the first, second and third positions, respectively.
In the Tug-of-War, Sony Abraham and team were first, and Kuriakose & team second.
Naseem Al Rabeeh Medical Center offered a free medical check up for all KBF members.
The event was co-ordinated by KBF Onam convenor Noorulhack, and general secretary Manzoor Moideen along the organising team.
