Onam Pageantry Gains Popularity in Capital City of Thiruvananthapuram

THE HINDU

A display signifying the conferring of Classical Language status on Malayalam at the Onam pageantry in Thiruvananthapuram on Friday. Photo: S. Mahinsha

INDIA--- Public patronage for the Onam pageantry is showing a steady rise with new art forms being included in the procession every year, Additional Director of Tourism M.S. Venugopal has said. The pageantry had, over the years, evolved as one of the most prestigious and awaited events, Mr. Venugopal, who is also the joint convenor of the pageantry committee, said. There was an overwhelming interest among artistes to be part of the cultural procession despite the fact that they were paid only a meagre amount, he said. [link]