Kerala government has decided to cancel official Onam festivities considering the massive displacement, loss of lives and property in the monsoon rains.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced the decision after the weekly Cabinet meeting. “It would be grossly inappropriate on our part to indulge in celebrations when thousands of our fellow beings are suffering and we are seeking support from everyone to provide succour to those have sustained heavy losses,” Mr. Vijayan said.
The Chief Minister said help was pouring in from diverse quarters, including the Central government, neighbouring States, film artistes, employees in government and private sector, ordinary people, school children and even migrant workers.
Actor Mohanlal handed over a cheque for ₹25 lakh to the Chief Minister at the end of the Cabinet briefing.
