Many will know that my family home is in Kerala, Southern India. However you may not know that this time of year holds a very special meaning for me, my family and all fellow Malayalees. “Onam” is our cultural belief festival where we celebrate the annual homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali. Between 29th August and 10th September, a grateful Kerala presents accolades in memory of this benevolent king who sacrificed everything for his subjects. Beautiful floral displays, colourful clothes, games, dances, sports, music and snake boat races are all bound in unison as families partake in the traditional Onam meal.
Onam’s gentle message of unity, peace and love, is one that brings hope in a world currently filled with tragic news from near and far. I visualise that all cultures have similar legends and that we can unite, to build nobler societies, by relating them to our younger generations. It is the attitude of people which causes problems. I believe that by adopting an attitude and approach to life, similar to the Onam ethos, we may engender love amongst communities and promote non-violence.
Just as Onam highlights Kerala, in a similar way “Lighthouse” is a stage for C.S.S. and its achievements. This is our family magazine, which is why your views are so relevant. As we regard all your feedback as meaningful we are pleased to learn that “Lighthouse” is being well received. I hope that my message, particularly in this edition, emphasises the importance of you being members of our C.S.S. family. Similar to the message of Onam, if we embrace a positive attitude, sincere friendships, honourable trust and a belief in doing our best for others we are bound to happily achieve our aims. Accordingly I convey to everyone Onam Wishes –
“Onashamsakal”