THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a notable departure from last year’s events, the Kerala state government has cordially invited Governor Arif Mohammad Khan to participate in the upcoming Onam festivities. Reflecting on the absence of an invitation extended to the Governor during the previous year’s celebrations, this gesture aims to promote inclusivity and harmony in this year’s event.
Yesterday afternoon, Ministers P. A. Mohammed Riyas and V. Sivankutty visited the Raj Bhavan, extending a warm invitation to the Governor for the Onam celebrations and procession. The occasion also marked the presentation of a Kurta & Dhoti to the Governor and a Kasavu Saree to his wife, Reshma Arif Mohammad Khan. The Ministers requested the Governor’s presence to inaugurate the Onam procession scheduled for September 2.
On September 26th, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has arranged an elaborate Onam feast for civic leaders at Sankaranarayanan Thampi Hall within the Legislative Assembly. But, due to the Governor’s unavailability in Thiruvananthapuram on that specific day, his participation in the feast is precluded.
Usually, the Governor has assumed the role of inaugurating the annual Onam procession. This esteemed custom is embraced as an honor by the state Tourism Ministers, who extend the invitation to the Governor to grace the Onam week celebrations. Notably, the absence of the Governor’s invitation during the previous year’s Onam celebration had sparked controversy and discord.
In a contrast to the previous year’s Onam celebration in Attappadi, this year’s event will see Education Minister Sivankutty joining Tourism Minister Mohammed Riyas in accompanying the Governor for the festive proceedings.
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