Onam is here again, and the Keralite yearns to celebrate one of the State’s most colourful and secular festivals on home soil. However, in this work-bound day and age that is not always possible.
To allow the women of the west coast to recapture a time-honoured and creative ritual, The Hindu MetroPlus andVivanta by Tajpresent the first edition of our pookkalam contest in Bangalore.
The Hindu MetroPlus Pookkalam Contest 2012 will be held at Richmond Lawns, Vivanta by Taj, M.G. Road, Bangalore, on Sunday. Participants have two hours — from 10 a.m. till noon — to come up with an inspired and colourful creation.
Only 30 teams would be allowed in the contest on a first-come-first-served basis. Each team should have a minimum of three and maximum of five members, including the team captain.
How to register
Teams should register themselves in advance with Priya or Cynthia at 66604239 or 66604237 or email salesvivanta.mgroad@tajhotels.com
The first prize is free stay for two at the Taj Kovalam for two nights and three days. The rest of the team will get a free Onam Sadya on August 29 at Vivanta by Taj. The team that comes second gets a lunch buffet at Cafe Mozaic at Vivanta by Taj and the team that comes third gets to feast on 2 kg chocolate gateaux and a large pizza.
The rules
Team members should be over 15 years of age. Each institution can send a maximum of three teams. The pookkalam can be a circle or a square but the diameter/length and breadth should not exceed 5 feet. It should have a minimum area of 19 sq ft. and a maximum of 25 sq ft.
Only natural flowers and leaves should be used. Participants have to bring their own materials.
Registered teams should report at the information counter at the venue at 9.30 a.m. for allotment of number and space on the lawn. The jury will take into account harmony of colour and shapes and neatness of the pookkalam. The jury’s decision will be final. Teams that do not adhere to the rules will be disqualified.
At the end of the event, all participants will be provided high tea by Vivanta by Taj. There will be special prizes for the best dressed man and woman.
Prize sponsors include Megamart, Bisleri, Rajasthan Handicrafts and Just Books.
