The Wiltshire Malayalee Association (WMA) celebrated its 20th anniversary with an Onam celebration at the end of September.

The event took place on September 29 at Swindon's MECA Auditorium and brought together the Malayalee community to celebrate Onam, a traditional festival of Kerala, India, along with honouring the association's two decades of service.

The mayor of Swindon, Imtiyaz Shaikh, officially inaugurated the festival, while Heidi Alexander, MP and Minister of Justice, was the event's keynote speaker.

The Wiltshire Malayalee Association's Onam celebrationThe Wiltshire Malayalee Association's Onam celebration (Image: Wiltshire Malayalee Association) Ms Alexander marked the occasion by presenting the 20th anniversary souvenir to Mr Tom.

The ceremony also acknowledged top GCSE and A-Level achievers within the community.

Basingstoke councillor Sajish Tom and Fr Aaji Neendoor were among the special guests.

The highlight of the cultural festivities was the 'Bharatholsav,' a showcase featuring a chain of performances representing seven major Indian festivals.

The Wiltshire Malayalee Association's Onam celebrationThe Wiltshire Malayalee Association's Onam celebration (Image: Wiltshire Malayalee Association) Traditional dances like Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattom, Kathakali, and Thiruvathira were performed by various age groups, along with cinematic dances.

The event was led by WMA president Princemon, secretary Pradeesh Philip, and treasurer Saji Mathew.

The celebration concluded with the serving of traditional Kerala food.

Organisers said the event "not only highlighted the spirit of Onam but also showcased the unity and cultural vibrancy of the Malayalee community in Wiltshire".