Firm starts Onam festivities the UAE way

Kicking off the Onam in the UAE season early enough as Kerala’s annual harvest jamboree gathers momentum, Blue Ocean Corporation, an Indian-owned multinational conglomerate, headquartered in London, on Wednesday hosted a rare gathering of its staff from over 18 nationalities, including Emiratis, to celebrate the festival showcasing indigenous cultural performances, cuisine and ceremonial enthusiasm in traditional attires.

Under the theme of `One Onam, One Spirit, One Family,’ Blue Ocean’s eclectic feast married the spirit of the UAE’s inclusivity as a home to over 200 nationalities, with the universal import of the South Indian festival in fostering togetherness, peace and joy.

“In many ways Onam reflects the UAE’s community spirit and socio-cultural cohesion across its demographic tapestry. Over the years, Onam in the UAE has grown beyond the niche of an annual celebration of Keralites, and has been embraced by many nationalities, even beyond the Indian diaspora. At Blue Ocean, we are home to over 18 nationalities, and it gives us immense pride in bringing most of them onto a single platform of bonhomie for this Onam,” said Dr Sathya Menon, Group CEO of Blue Ocean Corporation.

In the UAE, the participants were from various nationalities including the UAE, Egypt, Algeria, Canada, India, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Nepal, the Philippines, Sudan, Sweden, Syria and Tunisia.

“Last year I truly enjoyed experiencing Onam at Blue Ocean, but this time it felt even more personal. The inclusion of so many traditions from around the world made me feel that my own culture was also celebrated, and that sense of belonging is unforgettable,” said Adel Kenani representing Egypt.

This year the company is also hosting its Onam feast across its offices in the UK, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Delhi, Hyderabad, Pune, and Kochi, making it a global showcase of unity in diversity. Blue Ocean represents itself as an equal opportunity employer.

The key highlights of the Onam celebrations included a bouquet of traditional festival celebrations including indigenous cultural performances under one roof, inspired by camaraderie and cultural pride. Embellishing the event’s theme was an authentic Onasadya or feast served in the traditional way.

Relishing the sweetness of Payasam, Manal Taha from Lebanon said, “Every time we celebrate Onam here at Blue Ocean, it feels just as vibrant and welcoming. The spirit of togetherness and the Onam Sadya always make it an occasion to cherish."