Kochi: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan launches the renowned Tripunithura Athachamayam procession. During the inauguration, the Chief Minister emphasised the importance of celebrating Onam with a united spirit and embracing the joy of unity. Minister P. Rajeev raised the flag. Actor Mammootty graced the occasion as the guest of honour and also initiated the procession by flagging it off. Thus, the state’s Onam festivities have commenced.
Mammootty stated, “In the beginning, I came here to see Athachamayam before I entered the world of acting.” However, this is his first time appearing on stage as a guest. In the ancient era, kings would visit their people on this day. Yet, in a democracy, it is the people who hold the seat of power and authority. Atham is a festival cherished by Malayalees of all beliefs and backgrounds. The actor mentioned that Athachamayam is currently observed as a festival, symbolizing the happiness and affection of the people.
Mammootty also expressed that the Atham festival should be elevated to the status of a prominent cultural event. He stated that if this approach is taken, it could lead to the expansion of the Atham celebration into a larger-scale event. Enhancing this celebration could involve including cultural gatherings and programmes with the participation of numerous contributors from the cultural domain. He suggested that by doing so, it could potentially evolve into a significant slogan and trademark, similar to the stature of Onam. Mammootty also put forth the idea that the Atham festival should undergo changes to attract tourists.
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