Kuwait Tamil Sangam marks 20 years with ‘Pongal Saravedi 2026’ celebration
The Kuwait Tamil Sangam (KTS) commemorated a significant milestone with the grand celebration of its 20th Year Inaugural Function, “Pongal Saravedi 2026,” held on January 16, 2026, at the ICSK Senior School, Salmiya.
The vibrant morning gathering brought together members of the Tamil community, well-wishers, and distinguished guests to celebrate two decades of cultural preservation, community service, and collective achievement in Kuwait.
The event was inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Her Excellency Paramita Tripathi, Ambassador of India to Kuwait, by lighting the traditional ceremonial lamp, symbolizing knowledge, prosperity, and the Sangam’s bright journey over the past 20 years.
The Ambassador was briefed on the cultural significance of the Pongal festival and the milestones achieved by KTS since its inception, highlighting its enduring contribution to social and cultural engagement within the community.
The program opened on a classical note with a graceful Bharatanatyam performance by Dr. Vaishnavi, Founder of Swastika Academy, accompanied by her student, Miss Vishnu Nair.
The captivating recital set an elegant tone for the festivities. This was followed by addresses from KTS President S. Ramadoss, Vice President S. Chelladurai, and General Secretary Rajnarayanan Desigan, who outlined the vision and roadmap of the newly elected committee for the 2025–2027 term, officially ushering in the year-long 20th anniversary celebrations.
A heartfelt tribute video paid homage to the well-wishers and dedicated members whose unwavering support shaped 19 years of the Sangam’s journey. This was followed by an audio-visual presentation introducing the new office bearers of the Executive Committee for the 2025–2027 term.
The Executive Committee comprises President S. Ramadoss, Vice President S. Chelladurai, General Secretary Rajnarayanan Desigan, Joint Secretary Mrs. Rajalakshmi Kartik, Treasurer Prasanna Krishnan, and Joint Treasurer Mrs. Pradhama Maniyarasu, along with committee members Mrs. Sudha Jayamani, Mrs. Revathi Sivakumar, Mrs. Rajalakshmi Balaji, Mrs. Sumitha Sathish, Mrs. Lakshmi Ashok, Pattabhiraman, Sivaraman, Gokulakrishnan, R. V. Murthy, and Arivanandam.
The program was anchored by popular Tamil actress Mrs. Anitha Sampath, whose engaging presence added vibrancy and charm to the proceedings.
The cultural segment enthralled the audience with melodious renditions by Mrs. Shamala Devi, a much-acclaimed mimicry performance by KPY fame Satish, and a lively live stage act by renowned actor TSK, keeping the audience entertained throughout the morning.
In a special segment celebrating scholastic excellence, KTS presented the Academic Distinction Awards for the 2024–2025 academic year to Class X and XII students — children of KTS members — who secured over 90 per cent in their examinations, recognizing and encouraging academic achievement within the community.
The program concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Treasurer Prasanna Krishnan, who expressed sincere appreciation to the Chief Guest, performers, committee members, sponsors, and all contributors for their role in making the 20th-year inaugural celebration a resounding success.
The event concluded with a traditional banana leaf lunch, featuring an array of vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies catered by Grand Udhayam Restaurant, leaving participants with fond memories of a celebration that beautifully blended tradition, culture, and community spirit.
