The celebrations included Kaikottikali, the popular folk dance, and the traditional feast served by the Malayali students themselves, but what stole the show were two elephants, decked up in traditional style, sporting a Nettipattam, the ornamental head gear worn by elephants during festivals. As they ambled into the centre of campus, with traditional music playing in the background, the evening got underway.

The presence of the faculty and staff of XLRI along with their families added to the flavor. With the Malayalis among them also joining in as hosts, the bonding was there for all to see. The dance performance, by the girl students, which was a variant of the famous Thiruvathirakali, was held on the lawns of the college and the fluid, elegant movements were appreciated by all.

The crowd then moved into the Chaya Kada (tea stall) that had been set up in the mess. The faculty and students mingled as they sat down for dinner, and food was served. It was a sumptuous spread, it had been made in traditional Kerala style,and the results were there for all to taste. The crowds kept pouring in, and the army of amateur waiters was hard pressed but in what was a great example for solidarity, lots of enthusiastic volunteers took over, thus ensuring that it went off smoothly.

All in all a wonderful experience to cherish till next November 1, 2007!