Thiruvananthapuram: The spectacular Onam pageantry, which marked the culmination of the week-long Onam celebration organised by Kerala Tourism, took the state capital by storm on Monday. Hundreds thronged on the sidewalks, median and buildings along the Kowdiar - East Fort stretch to catch a good glimpse of the spectacular procession and attractive floats. Governor Arif Mohammad Khan flagged off the procession in the presence of Tourism Minister Kadakampally Surendran at Manaveeyam Veedhi at 5 pm.
The festival frenzy began in the afternoon as people irrespective of age groups started flowing into the city to witness the colourful procession. Families, youngsters, children were seen seated along the sidewalks and even the walls along the stretch for several hours to see the splendid floats and performances of artists.
As many as 80 tableaux from the Central and State departments, public and private institutions and cooperative sector added charm to the pageantry. The CRPF personnel led the procession playing musical instruments and displaying parasols which were followed by police band and mounted police.
Colourful floats flaunted themes ranging from burning issues of the state. Garbage issue, environment protection, eco-friendly vehicles, women empowerment were among the themes. The art forms of other states were the main highlight of this year's pageantry.
Chakri dance of Rajasthan, 'Lai Haraoba' folk dance of Manipur, Punjabi Bhangra dance, Tamil Nadu folk dance Karagam, Badhai dance of Madhya Pradesh, Rouf dance of Jammu Kashmir, Rathwa dance of Gujarat, Lambadi dance of Telangana were among the items presented by other states. The procession showcased Poorakkali, Velakkali, Kerala Nadanam, Mohiniyattom, Oppana, Margam Kali, Mayoora nirtham, African dance etc.
