The Singapore Malayalee Association’s (SMA) Onam Nite, held on Aug 11 at the Esplanade Concert Hall, was a showcase of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage, infused with contemporary entertainment.
Running for three hours from 6pm, the event delivered a blend of music, dance, mimicry and celebration.
The undisputed highlight of the evening was the live performance by composer Ouseppachan, Kerala’s iconic “Maestro of Melody”, whose career spans over four decades in Malayalam cinema.
Renowned for beautifully blending classical Carnatic traditions with modern musical styles, Ouseppachan transported the audience with orchestral renditions of beloved film scores, including Kathodu Kathoram, Ore Kadal, and Unniyarcha.
Emcee Jayaraj Warrier noted the evening’s triple milestones: Ouseppachan’s 50th anniversary in music, Singapore’s 60th birthday and the composer’s upcoming 70th birthday.
Marking the occasion, SMA adviser Jayakumar Unnithan and President Sunu Sivadasan Ghani presented the maestro with a traditional ponnada (shawl) in a heartfelt tribute.
The musical brilliance continued with a wide range of vocal performances, though the orchestra at times failed to keep pace with the high level.
Mridula Warrier’s soulful renditions showcased her mastery of classical techniques and emotional expression. Nikhil Mathew, winner of Airtel Super Singer Season One in 2006, delivered both romantic melodies and energetic numbers with precision and charm.
Seethalakshmi Puthunilam, the 2020 Top Singer champion, displayed an impressive vocal range, while Kerala State Award winner Sudeep Kumar captivated with his blend of classical and devotional songs.
“Together, they brought Ouseppachan’s compositions to life with warmth and depth,” said IT professional Mr Jijo Vincent, who attended the event. “Ouseppachan’s presence on the stage throughout was the most riveting. The organisers also paid tribute to him by rendering a beautiful dance number to his Veeralipattu Onam song.”
Laughter rang through the hall thanks to the mimicry performances of Jayaraj and noted mimicry artiste Mahesh Kunjumon.
Jayaraj, a Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi Award recipient and Kathakali exponent, fused humour with thoughtful social commentary, while Mahesh wowed the crowd with impeccable voice modulations mimicking Malayalam film stars and public figures.
Adding a visual feast to the evening were vibrant dance numbers by local talents from the School of Fine Arts. Their colourful costumes and graceful choreography added another layer of artistry to the night’s entertainment.
“The success of Onam Nite was reflected in the audience’s enthusiastic applause, marking yet another example of SMA’s commitment to preserving and promoting Malayalam arts in Singapore, “said Ms Sunu.
“Onam is more than just a festival; it is a testament to the enduring spirit of our community and the rich cultural heritage we share.
“Our cultural festivals serve as a bridge, connecting Malayalees of all ages and backgrounds, and welcoming our friends from diverse communities across Singapore. They are a reflection of our collective identity and a wonderful opportunity to share our vibrant culture with the nation.”
The SMA will continue its Onam festivities with Onam Village on Aug 24, from 9am to 5pm at MPC@Khatib, opposite Khatib MRT.
Presented in collaboration with other Malayalee associations and supported by Nee Soon South Indian Activities Executive Committee as part of the SG60 celebrations, the event embraces the theme “Everyone is Welcome”.
Visitors can look forward to the grand vegetarian Onasadya feast served on banana leaves, fun-filled games, the vibrant Pookkalam (floral carpet) competition, and cultural performances showcasing Kerala’s traditions.
The event will also have a rangoli presentation by Institute of Mental Health residents, a Singapore Malayalee Heritage exhibition, and a science display for school children.
Guest of Honour Dinesh Vasu Dash, Minister of State for Culture, Community and Youth and Manpower and Mayor of the South East District, and Special Guest Lee Hui Ying, Adviser to Nee Soon GRC GROs, will join the celebrations.
“SMA aims for Onam Village to be a unifying cultural platform for both the Malayalee community and Singapore’s wider multicultural society,” said Ms Sunu. “The Singapore Malayalee Association’s primary goal through events like Onam Village is to create a space where everyone feels a sense of belonging. We believe that by celebrating our traditions, we not only preserve them for future generations but also strengthen the bonds that tie us together as a community.”
On Aug 30, SMA will celebrate the first anniversary of its Malayalam language library at 44 Race Course Road. Established to preserve and promote Malayalam language and literature, the library has become a cultural hub for literary discussions, workshops and language education.
The anniversary programme will feature activities for all ages, including a Malayalam Poem Recitation session, with limited participation available on a first-come, first-served basis.
