Bhopal: The Mollywood Playback Singers’ Association recently celebrated Onam grandly and joyously, paying homage to Kerala’s most beloved festival. The event was graced by the legendary K S Chithra, who added her golden touch to the occasion. Titled “Sangeetham Samam Onam”, the celebration was a magnificent confluence of tradition, music, and camaraderie among renowned playback singers of the Malayalam film industry.
The association, known for its musical prowess, transformed the Onam celebration into a dazzling musical affair, making it an unforgettable evening. Held at a vibrant venue, the event brought together stalwarts from Mollywood, showcasing the spirit of unity and festivity that Onam symbolizes. Music is deeply woven into the cultural fabric of Kerala, and this event beautifully portrayed how music and tradition coexist in harmony.
The stage was set for an unforgettable night as singers, composers, and artists from across the Mollywood fraternity gathered to celebrate the essence of Onam. Attendees adorned traditional Kerala attire, with women in elegant white and gold sarees and men in pristine white mundus, further enriching the festive atmosphere.
S. Chithra, affectionately known as the “Nightingale of South India,” was the central figure of the event. Her presence not only brought prestige to the celebration but also reflected the significance of the festival within the music fraternity. As a singer who has given life to countless Malayalam songs, her participation added a sentimental touch to the evening.
Chithra’s grace, humility, and radiant smile as she engaged with her fellow artists set the tone for the evening. Her musical journey, spanning over four decades, was celebrated, and she took the stage to perform timeless hits that have made her an icon. Her renditions of Onam-related songs, along with a few of her classic numbers, evoked nostalgia and a deep sense of cultural pride among the audience.
The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the array of performances by Mollywood’s leading playback singers, both seasoned veterans and rising stars. The singers treated the audience to soul-stirring renditions of songs rooted in the spirit of Onam, accompanied by traditional instruments like the chenda, mridangam, and flute.
From folk melodies to devotional songs, the evening’s setlist represented the diverse musical traditions associated with Onam. Songs that evoke memories of the festival’s grandeur, such as those celebrating the return of the mythical king Mahabali, were performed with passion and reverence.
Veteran singers like M. G. Sreekumar, Sujatha Mohan, and Venugopal delivered exceptional performances, transporting the audience to the golden era of Malayalam music. Younger talents like Sithara Krishnakumar, Nithya Mammen, and Harish Sivaramakrishnan impressed with their vibrant interpretations of traditional and contemporary songs.
The event’s organizers ensured that the performances stayed true to the festival’s roots, incorporating traditional dance forms like Thiruvathira and Kathakali. These dance sequences, accompanied by live music, served as a reminder of the vibrant traditions that have been passed down through generations. The stage was adorned with flower arrangements and traditional lamps, creating a warm and festive ambiance.
One of the most heartwarming aspects of the event was the camaraderie shared among the attendees. The Mollywood Playback Singers’ Association has always been a close-knit community, and this celebration further strengthened the bonds of friendship and mutual respect among its members. It was a rare occasion for the singers to gather outside the professional realm, allowing them to celebrate not just Onam but also their shared love for music.
The association has played a pivotal role in bringing together the diverse talents of Mollywood and fostering a spirit of unity within the industry. This Onam celebration was a testament to their dedication to upholding Kerala’s cultural values while evolving with the times.
As the evening drew to a close, there was a palpable sense of gratitude and joy among the attendees. The performances, interactions, and the event’s very essence left an indelible mark on everyone present.
This celebration serves as a reminder of music’s vital role in Kerala’s cultural identity, and the Mollywood Playback Singers’ Association continues to be a beacon of that legacy. As the association looks ahead, it is clear that events like these will only strengthen the bonds within the community, ensuring that the tradition of Onam and the legacy of Malayalam music remain vibrant for generations to come.
