On April 22, the Kerala Association Townsville (KAT) brought together Keralites from all walks of life in Townsville to rejoice in the dual celebration of Vishu, the Malayalam New Year, and Easter at Lynch Family Hall, Holy Spirit School. The event showcased an array of vibrant cultural performances and was graced by the presence of esteemed guests, who shared their thoughts on the significance of these festivals.
The celebration began with an introduction by Kuriyakose Thoppil, followed by the lighting of traditional lamps by all current and former presidents of KAT, setting a festive mood for the occasion. Smt. Santha Kumar, a retired professor from University College TVM, delivered a Vishu message, emphasising the importance of balance and harmony in our lives. She urged everyone to cherish their cultural heritage and strive towards creating a world filled with joy, peace, and prosperity.
The event featured the traditional Vishu Kani, a symbolic arrangement of auspicious items such as rice, fruits, vegetables, flowers, and gold coins, set up before a mirror. The Vishu Kani special dance, choreographed by Helma Antony, was a visual treat as Krishna and other gifted dancers performed on stage. Their captivating dance moves left the audience mesmerised and garnered widespread acclaim.
Fr. John Kunnathumadappallil conveyed a message of hope and resilience in his Easter address. He reminded everyone that Easter symbolises peace and hope, and encouraged the community to embrace these virtues in their personal lives, families, and society. Fr. John emphasised the significance of the ‘third day’, when Jesus rose from the dead, as a reminder that we can overcome our difficulties and emerge victorious in our lives.
The traditional gift-giving ceremony, Vishu Kaineettam, and Easter egg distribution were highlights of the event, as children gleefully received Easter eggs and gold coins from their grandparents. Master Jonah Jinu, a young and talented singer, kicked off the cultural program with a soulful prayer song that left the audience in awe. His powerful voice and emotive expressions added depth to his performance.
The children’s dance performances, ranging from classical to contemporary, captivated the audience with their colourful costumes and intricate choreography. The palpable energy and excitement of the young performers were infectious, and the audience was moved by the celebration of their talents.
The dedication and hard work of the children and their instructors shone through in the enchanting and entertaining dance performances, which left a lasting impression on all who witnessed them. The Kerala Association of Townsville’s Vishu and Easter Celebrations were a testament to the strong community spirit and cultural pride of the Keralites in Townsville.
No celebration is complete without a feast, and the KAT’s Vishu and Easter event lived up to this tradition. The attendees were treated to a range of delectable dishes that tantalised their taste buds and left them satiated.
KAT President Benny Mangalaseril spoke about the significance of Vishu and Easter for Keralites, expressing his joy at seeing the community come together to celebrate these important festivals. He praised the efforts of everyone involved in organising the event and lauded the resilience and strength of the community.
The Kerala Association of Townsville’s Vishu and Easter celebrations demonstrated the unity and cultural pride of the Keralite community in Townsville. The event not only entertained the attendees but also served as a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving and celebrating our rich cultural heritage. The KAT’s efforts in organising such a successful event are commendable, and the memories created will be cherished by everyone who attended.
Letter from Fr. John Kunnathu Madappallil, Parish Priest, Holy Spirit Church, Cranbook
Friends,
Wish you all a Happy Easter!
The gift of Easter is peace and the risen Lord greets his disciples and others saying “Peace be with you.” In fact, we all live in a world that is craving for peace. It is the greatest hunger of every human person to have true peace in his or her personal life, family and society. I pray that the gift of peace that Easter brings be there in your hearts, families and personal lives today and always.
The message of Easter is the message of hope. Easter is the great feast of hope. It gives us the hope that after cross there is crown, after darkness there is light and after death there is resurrection. Remember that Jesus was risen on the third day. I think this ‘third day’ is very significant. Third day is the fringe of human expectation and the right time for God. That is the hope that we have. When we have difficulties and troubles in life, when we are sick, when we feel that we are defeated we might think that it is all over and that we are done and dusted. But Easter tells us that there is a ‘third day’ when we will rise up from our difficulties and sickness and when we will be victorious. Even others may write us off as the Jews thought that by crucifying Jesus they have defeated him forever. But as Jesus rose victoriously to new life we too will have a better and beautiful life. Easter invites us to have that hope always in our life. Once again, I wish you all a happy Easter and pray that the peace of Christ reign in your hearts and lives always and you may become people of hope.
Fr. John Kunnathu Madappallil OCD
Parish Priest,
Holy Spirit Church, Cranbrook
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