Events
Onam Celebration 2025 | Sri Maniya


Events

The Onam celebration at Sri Maniya Institute of Hotel Management in 2025 brought the entire campus together in a way that felt warm and genuine. The day carried a gentle excitement from the start, as students and faculty arrived dressed in traditional attire. The campus grounds, usually busy with routine classes and kitchen sessions, took on a festive look with floral decorations and a simple yet elegant pookalam arranged near the entrance.
Students from each department worked together to plan the celebration. This teamwork helped everyone feel involved, whether they were designing the pookalam, preparing cultural performances or assisting with the feast. Many first year students said it was their first time helping with an event of this scale, and the experience gave them a sense of belonging.
The morning began with a short gathering to explain the significance of Onam. Faculty members spoke about the values associated with the festival, such as togetherness, gratitude and the spirit of welcoming. This set the mood for the rest of the day.
One of the most admired parts of the event was the pookalam. Groups of students spent hours arranging petals in neat layers, checking colours and patterns with patient focus. Visitors paused often to take in the design, which reflected both creativity and discipline. This activity also encouraged students to share ideas freely, which strengthened the spirit of cooperation.
No Onam celebration feels complete without a traditional feast, and the students of the food production department handled the task with confidence. Under the guidance of their chefs and instructors, they planned a menu that stayed true to the essence of Onam. The kitchen buzzed from early morning. The steady rhythm of chopping vegetables, tasting curries and arranging plantain leaves filled the space with energy. When the sadya was finally served, the hall carried a pleasant mix of conversation and appreciation. The flavours reflected both skill and respect for tradition, which made the meal memorable.
Cultural performances added a lively touch to the afternoon. Students presented group dances, folk songs and short skits that highlighted different aspects of Kerala’s heritage. Each performance drew applause, not only for the talent displayed but also for the effort behind it. Many students who were usually quiet in class took the stage and surprised their peers. These moments helped build confidence and encouraged everyone to support one another.
The celebration closed with a small vote of thanks, recognising the many hands that helped bring the event together. Faculty noted that such festivals allow students to learn beyond textbooks. Event management, teamwork, leadership and hospitality were all woven naturally into the day’s activities.
Onam 2025 at Sri Maniya Institute of Hotel Management stood out for its simplicity and sincerity. The festival reminded everyone that hospitality begins with understanding people, respecting tradition and working as a community. The memories from the day will stay with the students as they continue their journey in the world of hospitality.