The World Malayali Council (WMC), Washington DC Province, proudly organized “Rhythm 2024,” a mesmerizing music and dance festival, on May 4th, 2024, at the Cabin John Middle School Auditorium in Maryland. This event was a tribute to India’s vibrant cultural heritage, featuring a wide array of rhythms and melodies from Kerala and other regions of India, which captivated over 200 attendees, primarily from the Indian diaspora in the greater Washington DC area, including Maryland and Virginia. The event was hosted by Mrs. Saroopa Anil, Ambika Kumar, and Arya Jithin.
The evening began with a welcoming speech by Mr. Deleep Kumar, Entertainment Chair, followed by Mr. Mohan Kumar, President of WMC, Washington DC Province. In his address, Mr. Kumar emphasized the importance of global community associations like WMC in promoting connectivity and inclusivity across geographical, cultural, and socio-economic boundaries. He highlighted the essential role these organizations play in tackling global challenges and creating opportunities for shared prosperity and well-being.
Mrs. Saroopa Anil, one of the hosts, spoke about Kerala’s rich cultural heritage and the significant contributions of the Non-Resident Indian (NRI) community in preserving and promoting these traditions. The ceremonial lighting of the lamp by Chief Guest Mrs. Thangamani Aravindan, Global WMC VP(AR), and Guest of Honor Mr. Jinesh Thampi, President of WMC (America Region), symbolized the event’s inauguration. They were joined by Mohankumar, Dr. Deleep Kumar, Dr. Narayanan Valappil, and Dr. Jayakumar Nair, members of the WMC joint committee.
The program showcased a mesmerizing array of performances, including classical dances like Thiruvathira and Bharatanatyam, performed by talented artists. Additionally, Bollywood-inspired dances captivated the audience. Highlights included the enthralling Kavadi dance by senior citizens and dynamic performances by young aspiring dancers, demonstrating the enduring appeal of Indian cultural traditions across generations.
Prominent community leaders such as Sushma Praveen, President of KAGW, Mr. Shelly Prabhakaran, Vice President of KCSMW, and Dr. Kala Shahi, General Secretary of FOKANA, provided their insights and support during the event, underscoring the collaborative spirit of the Indian diaspora in Washington DC.
The evening concluded with a dazzling dance performance by Mrs. Bindu Rajive’s team, followed by a heartfelt vote of thanks from Dr. Jayakumar Nair, Secretary of WMC, Washington DC Province. Attendees then enjoyed a sumptuous dinner and engaged in social networking, reflecting on the success of “Rhythm 2024” in promoting cultural exchange and community cohesion.
The success of “Rhythm 2024” was made possible by the invaluable contributions of all dancers and choreographers and the support of individuals such as Dr. Narayanan Valappil, Malini Menon, Seetha Ellath Valappil, Arya, Moideen Kutty, Anil Thaivalapil, Sunil Thaivalapil, Rehmia, Dr. Madhu Nambiar, Dhanjayan, Peet Thaivalapil, Visanth Divya, Anil Krishnankutty, Vijily, Saya, Sheeja, Raji, Kutty Menon, Shahi Prabhakaran, Ajayakumar Kesavan, Bini Ajayakumar, Ambika Kumar, Arya Jithin, and many others, whose dedication and efforts were instrumental in making this event a resounding success.
For more information about the World Malayalee Council, Washington DC Province, please visit the official website:(https://wmc-bwdc.com).
