AMICOS Hosts Grand Onam Get-together at Mar Ivanios College with Cardinal Cleemis as Chief Guest

On September 28th, 2024, the Association of Mar Ivanios College Old Students (AMICOS) organised a grand Onam Get-together at Mar Ivanios College (Autonomous), creating a joyful and nostalgic occasion for alumni, faculty, and members of the Mar Ivanios community. The event brought together participants from various batches, retired teachers, and students, who united to celebrate the spirit of Onam while reaffirming their bond with their alma mater.

The celebration was inaugurated by His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos, the Patron and Manager of Mar Ivanios College. In his address, His Beatitude emphasised the importance of cultivating community bonds and preserving Kerala’s cultural traditions. He highlighted how gatherings like these not only celebrate culture but also create opportunities for alumni to remain connected with their roots and to contribute to the ongoing growth of the college.

Dignitaries and Addresses

The Presidential Address was delivered by Sri. K. Jayakumar IAS, President of AMICOS, who spoke about the enduring legacy of Mar Ivanios College and the role its alumni play in maintaining that legacy. He praised the organisers and participants for their continued involvement and support of the college, emphasising the importance of alumni associations in strengthening ties between former students and the institution.

A benedictory address was delivered by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Mathews Mor Polycarpos, Auxiliary Bishop of the Major Archeparchy of Trivandrum. His Excellency offered his blessings and underscored the importance of unity, joy, and cultural pride, which are at the heart of Onam celebrations and the life of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church.

The event featured several key dignitaries who offered felicitations, including Dr. Meera George, the Principal of Mar Ivanios College, who acknowledged the alumni’s contributions and support in keeping the institution’s mission alive. Very Rev. Fr. Thomas Kayyalackal, the Bursar of the College, Prof. James Pathrose, and AMICOS Secretary Dr. Suju C. Joseph also shared their words of appreciation for the gathering and the efforts made by AMICOS to strengthen the bond between alumni and the college.

The formal proceedings began with a warm welcome from Sri. Albert Alex, the Convenor of the event, setting a positive and festive tone for the day. The gathering concluded with a vote of thanks by Sri. Rajeev ONV, who expressed gratitude to the dignitaries, the organising committee, and the participants for making the Onam Get-together a truly memorable event.

Cultural Extravaganza and Onasadhya

One of the most anticipated parts of the event was the cultural programme, which featured a variety of traditional performances that celebrated Kerala’s rich artistic heritage. Alumni and students alike showcased their talents through graceful Thiruvathira and Mohiniyattam performances, capturing the elegance of Kerala’s classical dance forms. A live orchestra added to the festive atmosphere, as musicians brought the spirit of Onam to life with traditional songs and melodies.

In addition to the cultural performances, several traditional games were organised, including tug of war (vadam vali) and pot-breaking (uriyadi), which brought out the competitive spirit of the participants and encouraged a sense of unity and camaraderie.

No Onam celebration would be complete without the grand Onasadhya, and this event was no exception. The Onasadhya feast, served on traditional banana leaves, included an extensive array of delicious dishes such as avial, kootu curry, thoran, and payasam, offering participants a true taste of Kerala’s festive cuisine. The feast provided an opportunity for the attendees to come together in fellowship, sharing in both the food and the joy of the occasion.

A Gathering of Generations

This Onam Get-together was especially significant for the participation of many retired teachers and long-time alumni, who shared their memories and experiences, giving the event a nostalgic touch. For many attendees, it was a chance to reconnect with former classmates, teachers, and colleagues, and to reflect on the impact Mar Ivanios College has had on their lives. The event provided a platform for different generations of Ivanions to come together, from younger alumni to older graduates, all united by their shared pride in their alma mater.

AMICOS, under the leadership of Sri. K. Jayakumar IAS and the organising committee, played a pivotal role in ensuring that this event was a success. The association continues to act as a bridge between the college and its former students, fostering relationships that last well beyond graduation. Through this Onam celebration, AMICOS reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the spirit of Mar Ivanios College, with an emphasis on unity, culture, and service to the community.

Conclusion: A Memorable Celebration of Tradition and Unity

The Onam Get-together at Mar Ivanios College was a resounding success, marked by a strong sense of unity, cultural pride, and shared memories. The event was not just a celebration of Kerala’s most beloved festival but also a reflection of the enduring bond that alumni have with Mar Ivanios College. The cultural performances, traditional games, and the shared Onasadhya brought the participants together in joy and fellowship, making it a day to remember.

The efforts of the organising team, led by AMICOS, were instrumental in making the event a grand celebration. By bringing together alumni, faculty, and students in such a vibrant way, they ensured that the traditions of Onam and the values of Mar Ivanios College continue to be celebrated and cherished by generations to come.

For AMICOS, this Onam Get-together was a proof of the strength of the alumni network and its dedication to the continued success and legacy of Mar Ivanios College. As the event concluded, the participants departed with a renewed sense of connection to their roots, their culture, and their college, looking forward to many more such celebrations in the future.

Source: Dr. Suju C. Joseph and Mr. Williams Mathai