St Joseph’s Interdiocesan Seminary joyfully celebrated the traditional festival of Onam on 26 August 2026 under the auspices of the Marthoma Malayala Samajam. The celebrations began on the evening of 25 August with a solemn prayer service led by Br Tony and Br Sham. The prayer service invoked God’s blessings upon the celebrations and set a spiritual tone for the festival.  The following day, the celebration reached its spiritual centre with the Festival Holy Eucharist, presided over by Rev. Fr Binoy Kuriyalachery, of the Diocese of Belthangady. Following the Eucharistic celebration, the Vachana Mozhikal, the homily magazine of the Marthoma Malayala Samajam, was released by Rev. Fr Binoy Kuriyalachery. The Punjiri magazine was also released by Rev. Fr Rajesh Rosario, Rector of the Seminary. Br Jerin, Secretary of the Marthoma Malayala Samajam, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of the celebration.

The festive spirit was further enhanced by a beautiful pookalam, a traditional floral design prepared by the members of the Marthoma Malayala Samajam. Various games and competitions were organized for both priests and brothers, providing opportunities for recreation and fellowship. The tug-of-war emerged as one of the major highlights of the celebrations, drawing enthusiastic participation and cheerful support from the seminary community. A traditional Onasadya, consisting of an elaborate spread of Kerala delicacies, was prepared for the festive meal. Adding a special touch to the occasion, Br Augustine, dressed as Maveli, the legendary and beloved king associated with Onam, brought smiles and laughter to everyone gathered. The festive lunch was accompanied by a vibrant cultural programme organized by the brothers in the seminary refectory. Traditional music and various performances added colour to the celebrations and provided a joyful conclusion to the day’s festivities.

The Onam celebration at St Joseph’s Interdiocesan Seminary was more than a celebration of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. It was a beautiful occasion of togetherness, gratitude, friendship, and shared joy, strengthening the bonds of fraternity within the seminary family and reminding everyone of the values of unity and fellowship that lie at the heart of the festival.