Mohankumar
The Sivagiri Foundation of Washington DC (SFWDC) hosted a grand celebration of Onam and Gurudeva Jayanthi at the Potomac Community Center in Potomac, Maryland. The event brought together members and supporters for an afternoon of traditional festivities, including a sumptuous sadhya (feast), speeches, and a series of cultural performances.
The program commenced with a traditional Onam sadhya prepared by the dedicated members of SFWDC, offering an array of authentic dishes served on banana leaves. Following the meal, the cultural segment of the event began with a moment of silence led by Entertainment Chair Dr.Kala Ashok, in remembrance of the victims of the recent Wayanad landslide disaster. This was followed by the recitation of Daivadasakam and the ceremonial lamp lighting, performed by the senior members of the foundation Mr. Ajayakumar, Dr. Joseph Vettickal, Mrs. Lakshmikutty Panickar, Mr. Peet Thaivalappil,Mrs.Sushma Praveen, Mrs. Sherly Nambiar, Dr. Vijily Bahuleyan.
Mr.Ajayakumar Kesavan, President of SFWDC, delivered the inaugural speech, expressing gratitude to the attendees and reflecting on the significance of the occasion.
The event featured a diverse range of cultural performances, showcasing the talents of the community. A notable highlight was the Thiruvathira dance performance by Mrs. Ambika Kumar, Mrs.Sumathy Patrick, Mrs. Srilatha Gadde,Mrs. Vrinda Nair, Mrs. Swapna Felix,Mrs. Gigi Tom, Mrs. Beena Tommy, and Dr. Kala Ashok.
With her soulful rendering of Gurudeva krithi, Dr. Saya Vijily evoked a spiritual ambiance. While captivating dances by sisters Ms.Aleena&Ms.Airene Ajay
kept the audience enthralled, Ms . Rishika Nambiar, Mr.Dhyaan Vijily and Mrs. Aparna Panickar mesmerized with their enchanting vocals.
Dr. Vijily Bahuleyan gave an insightful address on the life and teachings of Sri Narayana Guru, emphasizing his contributions to social reform and spiritual enlightenment. Representatives from prominent Malayalee organizations addressed the gathering, including Mrs. Sushma Praveen (Kerala Association of Greater Washington), Mrs. Sherly Nambiar (Nair Society of Greater Washington), and Dr. Madhu Nambiar (Federation of Malayalee Associations in the Americas).The musical section was a crowd favorite, with Mr.Kutty Menon from DC Raga leading the audience through a series of devotional songs in honor of Sri Narayana Guru. The soulful renditions kept the gathering engaged and resonated deeply with the Guru’s message of unity and peace.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by SFWDC Secretary Mrs. Ambika Kumar, acknowledging the efforts of all participants, volunteers, and supporters who contributed to the success of the celebration.
The Sivagiri Foundation continues to play an important role in fostering cultural and spiritual connections within the Washington DC Malayalee community, drawing inspiration from the teachings of Sri Narayana Guru and celebrating Kerala’s rich traditions.
To know more about SFWDC, Please go to our website: https://sfwdc.org
