In a city where the sands of Kuwait stretch beneath a bright sky, a remarkable legacy quietly flourishes, nurtured by faith, culture, and unity. For the Kuwait Malankara Rite Movement (KMRM), what began as a modest gathering of Malankara Catholic families in 1994 has blossomed into a steadfast community with over 500 families. Now, as KMRM marks its thirty-year Pearl Jubilee, the organization stands as a testament to the strength of tradition, spiritual unity, and cultural pride.
On November 1, 2024, this momentous journey culminated in “Vilavolsavam 2024,” a grand event held at Jaleeb Al Shoukh United International Indian School. This gathering was more than a celebration; it was a reflection of KMRM’s mission and identity—three decades woven together by faith and community. His Eminent Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos, the Major Archbishop-Catholicos of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, was present to bless this milestone, though his time was cut short. His Eminence would soon return to Kerala to honour another spiritual leader, Catholicos Aboon Mor Baselios Thomas I of the Malankara Jacobite Syrian Church, underscoring the close ties shared by these ancient Christian traditions.
A Festival of Faith and Tradition
The celebrations began with KMRM Senior Vice President Joseph Kuriakose ceremoniously raising the KMRM flag, a visual cue that set the tone for the day. Soon, members gathered in vibrant processions through the school courtyard for a harvest rally filled with color, music, and community pride. Traditional chenda drums and folk ensembles played, their melodies resonating with the deep heritage of Malankara. Each sector of KMRM participated, carrying symbols of harvest, their presence uniting generations under one banner.
The Pearl Jubilee assembly, led by His Eminent Beatitude, represented the heart of KMRM’s spiritual and cultural journey. Cardinal Cleemis’ presence symbolized the strength and unity of KMRM’s mission—faith enriched by the culture of Malankara brought to life in a land far from home.
Adding to the depth and atmosphere of the celebration, Fr. Severios Thomas and Ms. Serafin Fredy performed melodious Christian hymns that resonated throughout the gathering. Their voices, filled with devotion, created a moment of reflection and reverence, enhancing the spirit of the event and reminding attendees of the faith that unites them all.
Honouring Leadership and Spiritual Milestones
In a touching tribute during the Vilavolsavam, the community celebrated the 34th anniversary of priestly ordination for their beloved Spiritual Director, Rev. Dr. Thomas Kanjiramukalil. His Eminence cut a cake and offered Rev. Dr. Kanjiramukalil a piece, a gesture filled with respect and appreciation for his years of dedicated guidance. For KMRM, Dr. Kanjiramukalil’s leadership embodies the values the community holds dear—faith, dedication, and service to others.
KMRM President Babuji Bathery presided over the grand celebration, setting the stage for an inspiring day. Rev. Dr. Thomas Kanjiramukalil opened with a heartfelt address that traced KMRM’s journey and vision, followed by Cor Episcopo Rev. John Thundiyath, the GCC Coordinator of the Malankara Catholic Church, who blessed the assembly with a benedictory address. Distinguished speakers, including Rev. Dr. Titus John Cheravallil O.I.C., Rev. Fr. Severios Thomas, and Advisory Board Chairman Jojimon Thomas, shared messages that reinforced the collective spirit and mission of KMRM. Other notable guests, such as United Indian International School Director Joel Jacob, Metro Medical Group’s Mustafa Hamza, Joji Varghese Vellapalli, Sharon Tharakan, Jose Varghese, Shinu M. Joseph, Jilto James, Bindu Manoj, and Liju Parakal, also spoke, capturing the shared pride of the community.
A Portrait, a Souvenir, and a Legacy
In a moment filled with artistic reverence, Mr. A.E. Mathew and Master Dino John Thomas presented His Beatitude with a meticulously crafted portrait. The painting, capturing the grace and spiritual aura of His Eminence, would remain a cherished memory for the community. Following this, Souvenir Committee Convener Shamon Jacob presented a commemorative Pearl Jubilee collection, symbolizing thirty years of faith, commitment, and shared memories. Released by Coordinator Liju Abraham, the souvenir ensured that KMRM’s legacy would be preserved for future generations.
Recognizing Excellence in Service
The Business Excellence Awards segment highlighted KMRM’s broader influence, celebrating members who have excelled in their fields. Mustafa Hamza, C.V. Paul, and Sunil Parakkadathu received awards for their exceptional contributions to Kuwait’s social, cultural, and business landscapes. His Eminence’s presence as he bestowed these awards underscored the importance of service and excellence—a commitment that goes beyond individual achievement to uplift the entire community.
Projwella Cultural Competition and Academic Honours
Culture and intellectual growth form the backbone of KMRM, and the celebrations honoured the community’s talent and educational achievements. The Ahmadi Area emerged as champions in the “Projwella” cultural competition, a testament to the dedication of families across generations. Winners of the Ivania Season X quiz competition were celebrated as well, reflecting the community’s focus on fostering intellectual curiosity.
Two young members, Merin Abraham and Nia Ann Sam, were honoured with the Mar Grigoris Award for their exceptional academic performances in grades 10 and 12. This recognition highlighted the enduring commitment of KMRM to support the dreams and aspirations of its young members.
Unveiling a New Milestone: The KMRM Office Inauguration
Two days before Vilavolsavam, on October 29, 2024, KMRM inaugurated its new office—a space that would become a hub for unity, faith, and community engagement. His Eminence, accompanied by Rev. Dr. Thomas Kanjiramukalil and an ecumenical assembly of clergy from Marthoma, Orthodox, and Jacobite parishes, led the inauguration ceremony. Rev. Fr. Severios Thomas’s presence, alongside dedicated members of CMC, CWC, and senior leaders, embodied the ecumenical harmony KMRM has strived for over thirty years. The new office stands as a testament to KMRM’s growth and to Cardinal Cleemis’s vision for a unified, thriving community.
A Cherished Tradition for the Youngest Members
On October 30, KMRM welcomed members of the Kuwait YMCA to meet His Beatitude and share in a memorable cultural exchange. As part of the visit, young children participated in Vidyarambham—a cherished ritual where children write their first letters under the guidance of a spiritual leader. His Eminence’s blessings imparted a profound sense of hope and purpose to these young members of KMRM. Rev. Dr. Kanjiramukalil’s father, present to witness this heartwarming tradition, shared in this moment, which underscored the importance of preserving cultural heritage for future generations.
Gratitude and Farewell
As the vibrant energy of Vilavolsavam gradually softened into a reflective stillness, KMRM Treasurer Rana Varghese took to the stage for a heartfelt vote of thanks. The moment captured the essence of the day, an expression of gratitude that resonated with every person present, from long-serving members to young children who had just begun their own journey in the faith. Rana’s words underscored not only the efforts behind organizing this magnificent Pearl Jubilee but also the collective spirit that has sustained KMRM through three transformative decades.
As the crowd lingered, reluctant to let the day’s warmth slip away, there was a shared understanding that this was more than a celebration—it was a renewal of purpose. The gathering was a reminder of the journey KMRM had undertaken, from a small meeting of faith-driven families in 1994 to a robust community of 500 families committed to cultural, spiritual, and social enrichment. This Pearl Jubilee was not just a commemoration of the past; it was an affirmation of what lies ahead. Each generation—new and old—had renewed their commitment to carrying forward the torch of the Malankara Catholic faith.
In the soft light of that November evening, KMRM’s legacy felt tangible, like a thread connecting all those gathered to each other and to the countless souls who had been part of this journey over the years. The Jubilee may have drawn to a close, but the spirit it celebrated lived on, woven into the fabric of the community. It was a promise to honour the past, engage with the present, and move confidently into the future, guided by faith, unity, and a deep-rooted commitment to the values that define the Malankara Catholic tradition.
As the crowd began to disperse, there was a renewed sense of purpose and pride—a quiet understanding that KMRM’s next chapter would be written with the same dedication, spirit, and community strength that had brought them this far. And so, with smiles and farewells, the families of KMRM carried forward the legacy of Vilavolsavam and thirty years of faith, leaving an indelible mark on both Kuwait and the lives of all who call it home.
This Pearl Jubilee wasn’t just an event—it was a landmark, a celebration of resilience, unity, and enduring faith. It was a promise that KMRM would continue to grow, inspire, and serve, as it had for the last three decades, embracing the future with the same unwavering spirit that has defined its past.
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