Wed Feb 26 05:15:20 UTC 2025: ## Kerala Governor Stresses Unity at Ponniyathankam Cultural Festival
**Kannur, Kerala –** Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar on Tuesday urged for unity and collective growth in the state, speaking at the inauguration of the fifth day of the Ponniyathankam festival in Kannur. The festival, organized by the Kerala Folklore Academy, Kathiroor Grama Panchayat, and Patayam Gopalan Memorial Library, showcased Kerala’s rich cultural heritage through various performances.
Governor Arlekar highlighted the importance of unity despite diversity, stating that even with differing beliefs and appearances, the threads of Kerala’s culture bind everyone together. He lauded Ponniyathankam as a “Kumbha Mela of art,” celebrating the state’s traditions.
The event, presided over by Legislative Assembly Speaker A.N. Shamseer, included performances such as a women’s mega hand dance, yoga dance, and Kalaripayattu demonstrations by various Kalari schools. Several other dignitaries, including MLA K.K Shailaja Teacher, District Panchayat President K.K Ratnakumar, and Kathiroor Grama Panchayat President P.P. Sanal, also addressed the gathering.
First Piper 