Gen Z, Millennials Reshape Onam in Hyderabad
Young Malayalis are adding contemporary flair while keeping Kerala’s traditions alive
Hyderabad: Gen Z and millennials are driving fresh trends in Onam celebrations in Hyderabad, where the Malayali community has a strong presence. This year’s festivities began with Onam Sarkeet, a ride-and-drive rally. “Several like-minded Malayalis dressed in traditional outfits toured important and historic landmarks in Hyderabad. We had briefings, fun activities and moved from one spot to another. It was an amazing experience,” said organiser Manuel Philip.
The celebrations also saw the birth of Corp Mallu Band, which performed at Lulu Mall over the weekend. The band, formed by corporate employees in the city, played Malayalam pop and rock numbers along with Hindi, Telugu, English and Tamil songs. “This is the first of its kind. We invited friends from other regions staying in PGs and hostels. The whole mall was filled with high spirits,” said Minu Maria, a native of Thiruvalla.
Onam festivities extended to the medical sector, where many nursing staff are from Kerala. At Apollo School of Nursing, students staged a play based on a folktale of the festival. “This helped others understand the festival better,” said Sayana Benne of Kottayam. Senior student Malik Shaji added: “We sang Vanchipattu, the songs sung during boat races to encourage boatmen.”
The Kerala Association of Hyderabad has organised events over the past 10 days. “Our celebrations extend beyond traditional festivities like Pookkalam, Sadhya and Thiruvathira dance. They have become platforms for social cohesion and philanthropy. Onam brings together generations of Malayalis, integrating seamlessly with the multicultural fabric of Telangana,” said Surendran Kannatt, Global Vice-Chairman of the World Malayalee Council and president, Telangana Nair Seva Society.
