Keli 2017

On the evening of October 21st, the much-awaited cultural event, Keli, attracted large crowds of Manipalites to the Syndicate Bank Golden Jubilee Hall.

Keli was organized by the Kerala Committee of KMC, a bunch of enthusiastic miracle workers. While it was not conducted the previous year, yet, it was back in full fervor for 2017.

The programme started off with the inauguration and intro dance, which showcased a variety of dance forms – Bharathanatyam, Mohiniattam, Keralanadanam, Thiruvathira and Eastern Fusion. With their graceful steps and striking costumes, the dancers did justice to the diversity that Indian dance forms have to offer.

The next event was a special one, arguably the best of the evening. A group of dancers from Asare, home for the mentally challenged, impressed the audience with their lively performance. The sheer enjoyment on their faces as they danced, made all our hearts lighter and happier. The audience simply cheered and cheered, giving the dancers a well-deserved standing ovation as they finished.

After that, a group of students from MMMC performed Malay dance, an art form from Malaysia. Most people in the audience were witnessing its slow, aesthetic movements possibly for the very first time.

The rest of the evening was packed with performances, each more energetic than the last. Dancers from MCODS, KMC, SOAHS and MIT took to the stage and the audience grew a little wilder with each passing performance. Notably, Showstoppers, the well-known dance group from MIT which has taken part even in international events, put forward a performance that managed to exceed everyone’s sky high expectations.

Phoenix, KMC’s dance group also put up a great show. The synchrony, the beats, the moves, the energy – all top notch – and the audience screamed in unanimous agreement. Another group blended Bharathanatyam with Ed Sheeran’s crazily popular “Shape of You”. Kerala Committee freshers also rocked the stage with their quick beats and fun steps.

The Dance Face-Off was interesting to watch. A random member of the audience chose a random song for each round. Even so, the contestants stunned everyone with their spontaneous moves and versatility. Atit Firoz emerged the winner.

There were two fashion shows, where the performers flaunted their dramatic looks, costumes and quite eye-catchingly, their bold attitudes. It was a treat to watch.

Interspersed between performances, the lucky winners of the Raffle Draw were announced. The MCs also did a good job of entertaining the audience with their quips and cheery remarks.

The mellower part of the evening had everyone clapping to melodious, upbeat Malayalam songs. A few bands also performed popular songs which garnered considerable applause – there is nothing that can unify a crowd better than singing along with complete abandon to good music. A memorable performance featured the rather overlooked ukulele.

The skit, written and performed by the Kerala Committee, had the audience clutching their sides in waves of laughter. The dialogues and delivery were good enough to immerse most everyone in the story.

The curtains closed on Keli 2017 by around midnight. It certainly served its purpose – spreading smiles, making memories, and giving everyone a much-needed dose of weekend fun.

– Written by Niharika Dixith

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