Nalini (fourth from left) with the organising committee of ‘Pesta Kondattam’. — Sheila Sri Priya/The Star
Taman Tasik Titiwangsa will come alive with the rhythm and colours of Indian culture during “Pesta Kondattam”, a five-day extravaganza happening from Sept 12 to 16.
More than 80 Indian cultural activities have been lined up from 10am to 11pm daily.
The event, free to the public, is expected to draw approximately 80,000 visitors from across the country as well as from overseas.
The event is supported by Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry and Kelly Fine Arts.
From breathtaking performances to immersive experiences, the event promises to keep visitors entertained and engaged.
Pertubuhan Kesenian dan Kebudayaan founder Nalini Rathakrishnan said the public should be given the opportunity to learn and experience the multifaceted richness of Indian culture, which includes dance, arts and food.
“The event will feature numerous Indian performances and hands-on activities that the public can participate in.
“It is free for everyone, and we hope families and schools will take this opportunity to bring students to experience the festival,” she said.
Nalini highlighted that school students could collect Pentaksiran Aktiviti Jasmani, Sukan dan Kokurikulum (Pajsk) points by participating in the festival activities over the five days.
One of the most anticipated events will be the mass kolattam performance on Sept 13, where the public will have the opportunity to join in this traditional stick dance.
“We’re targeting about 3,000 participants for the kolattam.
“Everyone is welcome to join – you don’t need to be a dancer. There will be guidance provided,” said Nalini, who is also the event director.
The festival will also include three official attempts to enter the Malaysia Book of Records – Largest Participation in Kolattam Performance, Most Simultaneous Urumi Melam Performances in a Day and Largest Malaysia Madani Logo Kolam.
The urumi melam performances, also scheduled for Sept 13, will feature at least one team from every state in Malaysia.
As for the Madani Logo kolam, Nalini hopes that it will attract multiracial community participation.
“This kolam-making activity also does not require any prior experience.
“Volunteers will be there to guide participants,” she said.
Music lovers can look forward to performances by legendary Malaysian acts such as the Alleycats, along with Darkkey, Lock Up, Santesh, and Balan Kashmir.
Other festive highlights include Veshti Night and Saree Night, celebrating the elegance of traditional Indian attire, kids’ traditional attire parade, canvas painting competition, malar malai (flower garland) contest, thoranam (decorative garland) challenge and Deepam Festival Parade which is a magical display of lights and devotion.
Traditional Indian food and apparel will be on sale at the festival grounds.
Event organisers are seeking sponsors and partners.
For details, visit social media pages under kondattam_fbm_motac.
