MANAMA, BAHRAIN — The Kollam Pravasi Association (KPA), a prominent socio-cultural organization representing the diaspora from Kollam residing in the Kingdom, held its grand inauguration ceremony for the 2026–2028 executive committee at the KCA Hall in Manama.
The event, held as part of ‘KPA Fest 2026’, featured the swearing-in of the new board, a felicitation ceremony honoring the outgoing leadership, and the official release of the organization’s commemorative souvenir, Vilakkumaram 2026. The ceremony drew strong turnout, attended by leading socio-cultural figures from across the Kingdom.
Outgoing General Secretary Prashanth Prabuddhan welcomed the gathering, with outgoing President Anoj Master presiding over the function. The event was officially inaugurated by Bahrain Keraleeya Samajam (BKS) President P.V. Radhakrishna Pillai. Prince Natarajan, former Chairman of The Indian School Bahrain and KPA Patron, delivered the keynote address.
A major highlight of the evening was the unveiling of Vilakkumaram 2026, a special volume documenting the association’s achievements and welfare initiatives over the past two years. Souvenir Editor Saleem Thayyil and members of the editorial board presented the first copy to veteran KPA member Raheem Vavakkunju.
Guests of honor P.V. Radhakrishna Pillai and Prince Natarajan presented official badges to the incoming executive board members. Outgoing leaders were also recognized for their dedicated service by prominent community members K.T. Saleem, Aseel Abdulrahman, Rafeeq Abdullah, Chandrabose, and Raheem Vavakkunju.
In his acceptance speech, newly sworn-in KPA President Nizar Kollam outlined the vision for his tenure, while incoming General Secretary Jagath Krishnakumar offered the vote of thanks.
The formal ceremony was followed by a line-up of cultural performances put together by KPA’s creative wings—KPA Symphony, Pravasissree, Srishti, and the Children’s Parliament. The celebrations featured music, dance, and creative showcases by women and children, concluding the evening on a high note.