Toronto: Preparations are nearly complete for Levitate MahaOnam 2025, one of North America’s largest South Indian cultural festivals, taking place this Sunday, September 7, from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM at Sankofa Square (formerly Yonge-Dundas Square).
Recognized last year by the City of Toronto as the second-most attended event at Sankofa Square among more than 180 cultural festivals, MahaOnam has now grown into a landmark celebration of Kerala’s heritage in Canada. The City has once again extended official recognition and funding for the festival this year, underscoring its importance in promoting multiculturalism, tourism, and community development.
Sankofa Square: Toronto’s Cultural Hub
Sankofa Square is a City-designated event space located in the heart of downtown Toronto. Hosting more than 200 cultural events annually, it is one of the city’s most visible and accessible public stages. With state-of-the-art infrastructure, large digital displays, and an average footfall of over 100,000 people daily, the Square provides an international platform for showcasing Toronto’s diversity. For MahaOnam, the venue ensures enhanced production, safety, and visibility for thousands of visitors.
Festival Highlights
A central attraction this year will be “Komban,” the giant elephant art installation from Kerala, symbolizing the grandeur of Onam. Another first for 2025 is a cultural procession (ghoshayatra) featuring Malayali associations, clubs, and community groups. According to chief organizer Jerin Raj, the procession is designed to connect newcomers and international students with established Malayali organizations in Canada. To encourage participation, the best-performing team will be awarded $1,001.
The 12-hour celebration will feature over 40 cultural, dance, and music programs, with performers from across Ontario, other Canadian provinces, and the United States. Due to overwhelming interest, performances were reviewed by acclaimed filmmaker K. Madhu, ensuring both new and established groups have the opportunity to showcase their talent. Last year, K. Madhu attended in person and praised the festival’s scale and professionalism.
Showcasing Kerala’s Heritage
From Chenda Melam ensembles with 100+ percussionists to flash mobs, DJ performances, and authentic Kerala food stalls, MahaOnam promises a vibrant showcase of Kerala’s traditions blended with modern creativity. The festival continues to serve as a platform for young artists, international students, and community performers to present their work to a wide audience.
Organizers and Partners
The festival is led by a dedicated team including Jerin Raj, Maria Nikitha, Faras Muhammed, Ansy Abraham, and Aleena Thomas, supported by more than 10 team leads and over 100 volunteers. Sponsors and partners include LemFi Money Transfer, Grease Mallu, Realtor Jefin Valayal Joseph, Costco, Eltrono, Monaco Builders, York Immigration, Mee Smiles, Gold Max, Liza, Royal Kerala Foods, ND Professionals, St. Joseph’s Dental Clinic, and Kokkadens Group.
Free & Open to All
The event is free to attend and open to the public. With its central downtown location and global livestreaming, organizers expect tens of thousands of attendees on-site, along with a massive virtual audience worldwide.
For more details, visit www.mahaonam.ca or call 647-781-4743.
