PIO International Festival 2023

Celebrating Culture, History, Arts, and Tradition

The PIO International Festival 2023, which took place from June 2nd to June 4th at Vivekananda Ashrama SJKT and SMK Vivekananda in Brickfields Little India, Kuala Lumpur, marked a historic event commemorating the first PIO Day in Malaysia.

The PIO International Festival 2023 is a celebration of the rich culture, heritage, arts, and traditions of the People of Indian Origin in Malaysia. This significant milestone was achieved through a collaborative effort by GOPIO Malaysia, the High Commission of India in Kuala Lumpur, and various ethnic-based Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs).

Partner organisations, including Tamilar Sangam of Malaysia, Telegu Association of Malaysia, All Malaysia Malayalee Association, Tatt Khalsa Diwan Selangor, Melaka Chitty Cultural Association, Malaysia Bengalee Association, Gujarati Association of Selangor and Federal Territory, Sindhi Association of Malaysia, Oriya Society of Malaysia, and Malaysia Telegu Foundation, showcased the unity and shared values of the People of Indian Origin.

The event was organised by a dedicated team of 50 volunteers and 10 secretariat staff, with contributions from participants in the Tamil School Transformation Programme (TSTP) and the Malaysian Indian Youth Council (MIYC), who coordinated children’s games and traditional activities.

Overseas participation was notable, with visitors from India and GOPIO country chapters of Mauritius, Singapore, and Sri Lanka. The Indian Centre for Cultural Relations (ICCR) New Delhi sent the vibrant cultural troop Sree Patel Raas Mandali, specialising in Garba dance, to perform throughout the festival.

The festival’s diverse programme featured renowned artists and cultural groups presenting a blend of traditional and contemporary music, dance, and theatrical expressions. Stage performances were supported by Laasya Arts and Sugam Karnatica, adding a dynamic and artistic dimension to the festival. Approximately 750 senior and junior artists were involved in the stage performances.

A separate conference on Siddha, a traditional system of medicine, provided insights into ancient healing practices, attracting 300 participants. Demonstrations and talks on yoga and health sciences offered valuable knowledge on maintaining physical and mental well-being. Martial arts exponents showcased their skills, emphasising the cultural significance of traditional combat arts, with about 200 participants.

Traditional Indian games, both indoor and outdoor, provided participants and visitors with a taste of age-old pastimes. The festival also catered to the younger generation with children’s games designed to connect them with their Indian heritage, attracting more than 2,500 participants.

A highlight of the festival was the online sari contest, celebrating the elegance and style of Indian women’s traditional attire. The contest received 36 entries, and four finalists were recognised with prizes, adding a creative and individualistic touch to the cultural celebration.