The Marthoma Research Academy organised a global Christianity cultural fest from November 15 to 17 in Kodungallur at Azhikode Marthoma church. Artists from various parts of the world including Sweden, Africa, Finland besides different parts of India took part in the Harmony festival.
Thiruvathirakkali, Oppana and other art forms that help spread religious harmony were enacted at a well decorated stage at the Azhikode beach which has been a hub of Christian faith and culture for centuries.
On the first day, there was a classical music fest and the second day witnessed classical dance programmes. The final day saw the presentation of a harmony award to Padmabooshan Dr K.J.
Yesudas, by Finance Minister K.M. Mani, comprising a cash prize of Rs1 lakh and a momento.
Father Shyamal from Kolkata performed Hindustani vocal on the first day which impressed the audience and was followed by performances from Sweden and Finland. Jolly Mathew performed Bharatanatyam and Rubi K. John Ottam Thullal. Kalamandalam John and group enacted the Kathakali version of Divya Karunya Charitham from the Bible.
The traditional forms like Margamkali, Parichamutukali, Chavitunadakam, Kathakali and Ottam Thulal were part of the show. The last night had playback singer Alphonse Joseph's music show followed by K.K. Ramachandra Pulavar's Bibil Pavakoothu.
