Kala Singapore’s Onam Fiesta 2026 drew about 650 people to Hong Kah North Community Club on Aug 23, combining Kerala traditions, children’s activities, cultural performances and a 26-dish Onasadya with a strong message of multicultural bonding.
Co-organised with the Hong Kah North CC Indian Activity Executive Committee (IAEC), the day-long celebration was attended by grassroots adviser Lee Hong Chuang and attracted Malayalees as well as residents from other communities.
Kala Singapore president Shaji Philip said the annual fiesta was designed as a family-oriented celebration for members, supporters, friends and residents of the neighbourhood.
“It was a wonderful celebration that lasted for a full day, with pookkalam (floral carpets), children’s competitions, fancy dress, multicultural stage events and the sadya,” he said.
Among the liveliest attractions was vadam vali, or tug-of-war, with separate competitions for children, women and men.
Children were particularly prominent, participating in colouring competitions, memory tests, brain challenges, fancy dress and stage performances. Thiruvathira, performances by Jubilant Arts and Kala’s youth and children’s groups were also well received.
A group song by Kala Mythri, the organisation’s women’s wing which played a major role in organising the fiesta, was another highlight.
The fancy dress competition provided an interesting example of cultural exchange, with strong participation from non-Malayalees and costumes incorporating Tamil cultural elements.
“The level of participation from non-Malayalees and Malayalees made it more delightful, allowing everyone to enjoy the colours, culture and (the) message of Onam,” Mr Shaji said.
The biggest draw, however, remained the traditional Onasadya.
About 640 people were served an elaborate vegetarian feast comprising 26 dishes on full traditional banana leaves, which were specially flown in from Kerala.
Mr Shaji said considerable attention went into maintaining the authenticity and quality of the meal, down to details such as ensuring the banana stems were carefully cut rather than pulled apart.
Affordable community coupons also enabled more neighbourhood residents, including less privileged families, to enjoy the feast.
Mr Shaji said Mr Lee’s continued involvement went beyond that of a typical guest of honour.
“He has always supported initiatives that encourage cultural integration,” he said. “He enjoys the events and the sadya, and shares our happiness in seeing the local community celebrate multicultural events together.”
For Kala Singapore, that wider participation is central to the purpose of the fiesta.
“When families, friends and neighbours from other communities join us, enjoy the sadya and watch our performances, they are not simply attending a Kerala festival – we are learning about one another and building friendships,” Mr Shaji said.
He added that such celebrations also help Singapore-born Malayalee children understand their roots while reinforcing their Singaporean identity.
“Our children get to understand where their families came from, while growing up with a strong sense that Singapore is their home and their heritage is part of Singapore’s larger cultural story.”
