Drummers from an Urumi Melam troupe will set the tone for Tamil New Year celebration.
SILAMBAM warriors, swirling kolam and the hypnotic beat of urumi drums will be among highlights at the annual Tamil New Year celebration.
This vibrant street festival planned for this Saturday at Brickfields’ Little India, Kuala Lumpur, promises to be an immersive cultural experience.
It will also feature classical dances such as bharatanatyam and karagattam, a traditional folk dance that involves balancing a decorated pot on one’s head.
There will be nostalgic village games too, such as pallanguzhi (a South Indian board game) and uri adithal which is another popular traditional game, besides cultural concerts that day.
“There will be something for everyone across all age groups,” said Malaysia Hindhudharma Maamandram deputy president Rishikumar Vadivelu.
For food lovers, he said there would be traditional snacks and drinks.
“For those who enjoy music and dance, expect stirring performances of classical and folk arts.
Rishikumar (left) says there will be something for everyone at the street festival.
“And for the playful at heart –young or old – there’ll be traditional games and activities,” Rishikumar said.
He said uri adithal was always a crowd-favourite – it’s chaotic, hilarious and full of meaning.
“Blindfolded participants try to smash a suspended claypot, guided only by the noise and encouragement of the crowd.
“It symbolises perseverance and team spirit and reminds us of the joy and mischief woven into our cultural roots,” he said.
On silambam, Rishikumar elaborated that it was more than just a martial art, stressing that it’s a living symbol of Tamil strength and discipline.
“When you see the swift, flowing movements of the fighters and hear the rhythm of the sticks, you are witnessing a tradition that has been passed down through generations.
“It’s both fierce and beautiful,” he added.
The event will run from 3pm to 9pm and organisers anticipate a crowd of between 3,000 and 5,000 visitors.
“We are expecting a good number of tourists as well.
“Judging by last year’s turnout, I won’t be surprised it will be the same this year too.
“But this event is not just a celebration of Tamil culture, it is also a gift to the next generation.
“We want our youth to experience, understand and take pride in their cultural identity,” he added.
