Thiruvananthapuram:  The tourism minister for Kerala, P A Mohamed Riyas, opened an office on Thursday specifically intended for the upcoming Onam celebrations, which will be held from September 6 to 12.

On September 6, the Onam festivities would be inaugurated by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan at a ceremony at the Nishagandhi open-air theatre on the grounds of Kanakakunnu Palace.

In light of the global return to normalcy following the COVID-19 pandemic, this year's festivities have been organised on a huge scale, said Mr.Riyas, who opened the office at the Tourism Directorate here.

"Now is the moment to smile once more, forgetting the crises and grief brought on by the pandemic. Onam will be celebrated in befitting fashion throughout the State. Celebrations will be planned with participation from all sectors outside of the State capital, the minster said.

Traditional art forms would have priority in the cultural programmes, said the Minister for General Education and Labor V Sivankutty, who is also the working chairman of the celebrations. The Minister also  said that throughout the festival's week-long run, a wide range of programmes would provide residents of the State as well as visitors with a true cultural feast.

Tourism Director PB Nooh, IB Satheesh MLA,  and officials of the Tourism Department were present during the function. A high-level panel has been formed to oversee the festival's operations, with the Chief Minister serving as the primary patron, the Tourism Minister serving as chairman, Speaker MB Rajesh, Leader of the Opposition VD Satheesan, and Ministers serving as patrons. 

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