Samajam set for cultural fiesta

THE Bahrain Keraleeya Samajam (BKS) will mark the opening of its new premises in Segaiya with a two-day cultural extravaganza, starting at 7.30pm on Saturday. The opening ceremony will begin with an Indo-Western classical dance fusion conceived and directed by Bahrain-based actor and director Jaya Menon. More than 40 artists will participate in the mega stage show that is being choreographed by Jothi Raj and Ashokan Kunnamkulam. Special effects and lighting arrangements will be handled by Valson Koyilady. Chief guests at the event will be Overseas Indian and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Vayalar Ravi and Social Development Minister Dr Fatima Al Balooshi. Kerala's Water Resources Minister N K Premachandran and Indian Ambassador Balkrishna Shetty will also attend. Meanwhile, celebrations will continue at 7.30pm on August 31 with a dance and musical recital by Indian Bharatnatyam classical dancer and actress Lakshmi Gopalaswami and playback singer Nishad. Ms Gopalaswami received the Kerala state government award for best supporting artist last year for the film Thaniye and her debut Malayalam film Arayannangalude Veedu earned her the Kerala state award for the best supporting actress. She has been performing since the age of 12 and has performed live for television channels across the world. Meanwhile, Nishad has sung in 12 movies including Mambazhakalam, Boyfriend, Swapnam, Kondu, Tulabharam, Kanninum Kannadikkum and Sarkar Dada. He has performed in India and around the world with leading singers including Yesudas, KS Chitra, Sujatha, SPB, Sadhana and Sargham. The BKS has chalked out a 60-day cultural extravaganza as part of its opening ceremony. It will begin on September 4 and will include Indian traditional folklore, contemporary dances, Indian classical dances and music. The BKS will also mark the Onam harvest festival with a 10-day celebration ending with an Onasadhya feast. Registration for the Pookkalamalthsaram floral arrangement contest that will take place on September 5 at the new BKS is also continuing. Entry to all events is free. Contact, 39617735 for more information.