Manama : The Kerala Catholic Association (KCA) has officially unveiled its plans for “Onam Ponnonam 2026,” a grand, month-and-a-half-long cultural extravaganza. KCA President James John announced the details during a recent press briefing, confirming that the festivities will kick off on Friday, August 21, 2026, at 7:00 PM and culminate in a grand closing ceremony on October 9, 2026.
The celebrations aim to bring the rich heritage of Kerala to the community in Bahrain through a diverse lineup of cultural, sporting, entertainment, and community events. The extensive celebrations are coordinated under the leadership of Onam Celebrations Committee Chairman Jithin Jose and Vice Chairman George Sebastian. The events aim to bring the rich heritage of Kerala to the community in Bahrain through a diverse lineup of cultural, sporting, entertainment, and community events
Continuing a long-standing tradition, Bahrain Financing Company (BFC) is the main sponsor for this year’s festivities, maintaining its vital partnership built over the past several years. Galaxy Arabia Trading Co. W.L.L. joins as the support sponsor, alongside various other prominent supporters of the KCA.
Festival Highlights and Key Events
- August 21 (7:00 PM): Inaugural ceremony featuring traditional Kerala art forms.
- August 27 & September 5: Exclusive sports competitions for KCA members.
- August 28: Island-wide Tug-of-War competition with attractive cash prizes.
- September 11: Grand Ona Sadhya managed by conveners Babu Varghese and Roy Joseph.
- September 12 & 17: “Sangeetha Sandhya” musical evening hosted by the KCA Music Team.
- September 17: An international social drama staging featuring global artists.
- October 1: Open Thiruvathira Kali competition with high-value prizes.
- October 2: Mega Fusion Dance program hosted by the KCA Ladies Wing at the KCA grounds (convener Juliet Thomas and Coordinator Elmy Wilson).
- October 9: Grand Closing Ceremony featuring prominent visiting personalities from Kerala.
Open-to-All Competitions & Registration Details
Community members can participate in several open competitions. Advance registration is mandatory. Interested participants should contact the respective coordinators directly:
- Payasam Competition (August 28): Maria Jibi (+973 33283350) / Anu Jerish (+973 36364830)
- Tug of War Competition (August 28): Joby George (+973 39801678)
- Onapattu Competition (September 3): Linsy Mol Joseph (+973 33346234)
- Ona Pudava Competition (September 4): Shainy Nithyan (+973 36692468) / Alin Joshi (+973 39398575)
- Panchagusti Competition (September 10): Joshi Vithayathil (+973 37373466) / Jerish Johny (+973 39153296)
- Thiruvathira Competition (October 1): Sangeetha Joseph (+973 39465464) / Jophy Jenson (+973 36792982)
Sponsorship inquiries can be directed to the Onam Celebrations Sponsorship convener, Shaji Pazhiyoor – 39625351.
For more information please contact, Onam Celebrations Committee Chairman Jithin Jose 38046995 or Vice Chairman: George Sebastian 39068393.
