Tamil Makkal Mandram - USA celebrated their flagship event - traditional festival “Thai Pongal ThiruVizha 2018”, on January 20 th, 2018 at Fogelberg Performing Arts center, Burlington MA. Around 600+ audience were welcomed by the authentic symbols of Tamil tradition â€“ Mullai Poo, Panneer, Kalkkandu and Chandanam (sandal) at the reception. The TMM hallmark photo booth- TMM Village was decorated beautifully with traditional hut, Pongal Paanai , Karumbu (sugar cane) and Kolam. Continuing the festive spirit, there were 25+ vendor booths selling colorful Indian outfits , jewelery, organic “Chekku nalla yennai” (organic sesame oil), snacks to booths spreading socially relevant messages and more!!!!

The cultural celebration with over 200 participants was one gala, colorful and entertaining event. It commenced with Tamizh Thaai Vazhththu followed by tiny tots fancy dress. The  other performances included Bharatanatyam from various dance schools, folk dances and foot tapping energetic and vibrant dances on movie songs by both kids and adults. There we’re also beautiful melodious song medleys sung by the very talented participants. Mridangam recital was another highlight of the program.

The icing on the cake was an enthusiastic, mesmerizing “Karakattam” performance by special guest of the evening - TV star/ Actress Ishwarya Prabhakar.the entire auditorium resounded with claps and once more for the performances!!!

Awards were presented to the winners of “TMM- Drawing and Coloring competition”, “ Kavithai and Katturai competitions” as well as “ Sweet Pongal Competition”. All cultural participants received a “TMM Shining Star “trophy as appreciation for their excellent performances.

“Bawarchi” restaurant catered  mouthwatering snacks and hot tea. At the end the elaborate spread of traditional Sweet Pongal dinner with idli sambar, vadai, vegetable biryani and many more delicacies thrilled the audience. The live Karaoke during dinner kept the festive spirit still going strong.

The flawless compering, appropriate lighting and perfect acoustics at the auditorium made the Pongal Vizha a treat to watch, listen and cherish our back home childhood Pongal day memories. 

As the curtains were down at the event, the friends and families applauded TMM for hosting such an memorable  event with loads of fun and nostalgic memories. The photos and videos from the event are shared on TMM’s Facebook page https://m.facebook.com/Tamilmakkalmandramusa/ TMM  also looks forward to hosting many more such events in times to come!!!

|