Theeraravam 2: Coastal Women Take the Stage with Chingari Melam

“Theeraravam Season 2,” a beautiful celebration of women’s empowerment, social harmony, and Kerala’s cultural heritage, was held on Saturday, 22 August 2026, at Kodimaram Ground, Kollam. The programme was jointly organised by the Fishermen Community Development Programme (FCDP) and Theeradesa Mahila Society (TMS).

The debut performance of Chingari Melam by trained coastal women was the main attraction of Theeraravam. Smt. Bindu Krishnan, State Minister for Women and Child Development, attended the programme and personally met and congratulated the women who performed the Chingari Melam. The performance, presented by the women with great enthusiasm and confidence, received special attention from the audience.

Bishop Fr. Jose Joseph, Bishop of the CSI Kollam-Kottarakkara region, inaugurated Theeraravam. Fr. Benjamin Pampeykal SDB delivered the presidential address. He felicitated women who had come forward in various fields and highlighted the importance of organising the Mega Thiruvathira this year as well, following the large public participation it received last year.

Dr. P. K. Gopi said that Kerala’s unique tradition of sharing resources with one another and people from all sections of society coming together to participate in celebrations is being strengthened through programmes like Theeraravam. He said that the Onam celebration taking place on the coast is evidence that the friendship and harmony among the people of Kerala cannot be destroyed by anyone. He emphasised that the special nature of Kerala lies in celebrating festivals together, without making them the celebration of any particular community alone.

The gurus who provided training in Chingari Melam were honoured during the programme. Fr. Saji Elambasseril, Director of FCDP-TMS and the person who introduced the idea of Chingari Melam, along with other distinguished guests, was also honoured.

In addition to the distinguished guests, Smt. Prathibha (SHO), Fr. Dr. Joseph John, Smt. Sinda H. Mendes, Smt. Laetitia Martin, and Shri. Milton Joseph participated in the programme.

Along with the Mega Thiruvathira, Chingari Melam, and tug-of-war, various other cultural programmes were also presented. Theeraravam Season 2, which celebrated the unity of the coastal community, women’s strength, and cultural heritage, was notable for its strong public participation and diverse range of programmes.