Student GEMS Arts and Science College, Ramapuram, dressed as Maveli based on a helicopter that landed on a college during Onam celebrations. | Photo Credit: Sakeer Hussain
In a wonderful reversal, myth met with reality when King Maveli, a legendary ruler expelled to Netherworld, made a dramatic return in Malappurama’s celebrations and resisted expectations in several ways throughout the district.
The creativity rose to new heights when two Mavelis created a dramatic entrance: one descending from the sky in a helicopter, with the permission of GEMS Arts and Science College, and another rising from the depths of the well in exciting performance with the assisted pulley at Onam Festivities.
While the 4 ₹ Lakh helicopter fascinated the social media with its grandeur, the output of the assisted pulley revived the ancient tradition and in the innovative way reimaginated the path of King Maveli. They were two unique interpretations of timeless legend.
People, especially youth, were looking for ways to differ uniquely in their celebrations onam. The exceeding gender and belief boundaries, the spirit of Onama connects everyone in the common sense of joy and celebration.
GEMS Arts and Science College, Ramapuram, welcomed their high-tech Maveli as he landed on a helicopter. | Photo Credit: Sakeer Hussain
However, Islamic scholars from the traditional and reformist environment warned the Muslim community against participation in Onam celebrations. According to them, onam is neither secular nor Islamic, but a festival deeply rooted in Hindu traditions.
Kanniyan Mohammed Kutta, head of the Islamic Wisdom movement, pointed out that Onam was a festival tied to the Hindu faith, not Islam.
Mohammed Kutta, like several other Islamic scientists, advised Muslim youth to maintain its different identity by avoiding the imitation of rituals and celebrating other faiths.
“Celebrating Onam and Visha, along with our Hindu brothers and sisters, our youth can unintentionally endanger the basic monotheistic principles of Islam,” Dr. Mohammed Kutty.
Several scientists gently criticized the Indian Union of the Muslim League of State President Syed Sadikali Shihab Thang for singing on the camera on the camera, suggesting that it threatened his Islamic attitude. They warned that individual actions, even leaders, should not set precedents for Islamic principles.
But the youth on campuses were in high spirits and plunged into the celebrations with Gusto. They played in traditional dresses, music, dance, peas and festive feast served on banana leaves.
Obviously unwavering warning voices induced by Islamic scientists enthusiastically accepted Onam’s traditions.
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Published – 2 September 2025 20:30
