'Malabar Mahotsavam' begins

Kozhikode, Feb 29 (UNI) Kerala Governor R L Bhatia inaugurated the three-day 12th 'Malabar Mahotsavam,' an annual cultural extravangaza this evening.

After the inaugural ceremony, organised by District Tourism Promotion Council, famed classicar dancer Malavika Sarukkai performed 'Bharatanatyam' on an open air stage in the beach.

Besides, an array of entertainment programmes would also be organised to highlight the cultural heritage of Malabar region.

Playback singers Jayachandran and Jyotsna, and pop singer Sharaon Prabhakar would perform during the event, while carnatic music, folk arts, drama and marshal arts would be featured at various venues.

Started in 1993, the Mahotsavam was first celebrated in the post Babri demolition days as 'dictated' by the situation to maintain communal harmony.

UNI PCH JJ 1919