National Saras Mela Begins at Chalissery

Chalissery (Palakkad) : The 13th National Saras Mela, organised under the leadership of Kudumbashree, has begun at the Mulayumparambu Ground in Chalissery, Thrithala. Running until the 11th, the mela showcases products by women entrepreneurs from across the country, food stalls representing 13 states, Kudumbashree products from all districts of Kerala, a food court, and a happiness corner. The mela’s highlight is the range of products prepared by women entrepreneurs and women’s self-help groups, with over 300 stalls in total.

The mela was inaugurated by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, with Minister M B Rajesh presiding. Speaker A N Shamseer and Minister K Krishnankutty attended as chief guests. Other dignitaries present included MP Abdul Samad Samadani, MLAs P Mammikutty, Muhammad Muhsin, and P P Sumaad, along with various public representatives. Actress Beena R Chandran, film art director Ajayan Chalissery, Dr. V Sethumadhavan, and percussion artist Peringode Chandran were honoured by the Chief Minister. Thrithala presented a gift to the Chief Minister, handed over by Minister M B Rajesh. The event began with a ceremonial performance of the Mudraganam song by Kudumbashree workers.

Ahead of the inauguration, a grand procession started from the Chalissery Ansari Convention Centre, drawing thousands of participants. The procession featured Kerala’s traditional percussion ensembles and art forms, including Panchavadyam led by Peringode Chandran and a tri-musical fusion performance by Prakash Ulliery and Sharath. Daily cultural programmes are scheduled each evening alongside the mela.