Bhilai, Jan 20: On Sunday, Rajya Sabha member and renowned film actor Suresh Gopi inaugurated the ‘Shri Mannat Padmanabhan Smriti Mandap’ at the premises of Bhilai Nair Samajam School in Sector 8. This event was the part of golden jubilee celebrations of the organization. On the second day, the programme began with formal inauguration of the Mandap. Chief Guest said that the mandap would inspire the future generations for constructive works. This mandap is the symbol of the works of the founder members of BNS. He added that the Kerala natives have a distinct identity in Bhilai. Today, the Samaj has got an opportunity to get integrated by grace of Lord Ayyappa Swami. Speaking about the Sabrimala issue, he criticized the Kerala state government.
BNS President MS Raghu Kumar said that for the first time they are organizing such a mega event. Social activists G Suresh Pillai and Father Raju from Saint Thomas College were present as special guests. S Anil Kumar (General Convener of the Golden Jubilee Celebration Committee) delivered the welcome address. A grand feast was served in the afternoon. Nair Women Convention was organized in the second half of the day. Traditional martial arts “kalaripayattu” teacher and practitioner Padma Shri Meenakshi Amma graced the convention as chief guest. Musical eve was conducted by Malabar Kala Bhavan.
Earlier on Saturday, the concluding part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations of Bhilai Nair Samajam began with the traditional dance “Thiruvathira”, which was performed by about 100 women at the premises of BNS School in Sector 8. Over one lakh earthen lamps were lighted in the school premises to celebrate this occasion in a glowing manner. Film mega star and Rajya Sabha member Suresh Gopi was the chief guest. Several other dignitaries were present on the dais.