In a vibrant celebration of culture and sustainability, over 1,000 healthcare workers in Abu Dhabi came together to create a stunning giant floral carpet, known as ‘pookkalam’, to mark the Onam festival. This initiative not only honors the rich traditions of Kerala but also emphasizes the UAE’s commitment to sustainability in the lead-up to COP28.
Key Takeaways
- Event: Over 1,000 healthcare workers participated in creating a giant floral carpet.
- Purpose: To highlight the UAE’s Year of Sustainability and COP28.
- Design: The carpet represented the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Materials: 750 kg of real flowers were used to create the 250 sqm carpet.
- Cultural Significance: The event included traditional performances and a feast.
A Floral Tribute to Sustainability
The event took place at Burjeel Medical City, where healthcare workers meticulously arranged the floral carpet over approximately 15 hours. The design mirrored the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals, including critical issues such as ‘No Poverty’, ‘Zero Hunger’, and ‘Climate Action’. This breathtaking creation served as a visual reminder of the pressing global challenges and the collective responsibility to address them.
Celebrating Onam with Cultural Performances
The Onam celebrations featured cultural performances that showcased the rich heritage of India. With 76 performers representing 76 years of India’s independence, the event included traditional drums, songs, and dances. A highlight was a staff member dressed as the mythical King Mahabali, who greeted dignitaries and attendees alike.
Dignitaries and Community Engagement
Sunjay Sudhir, the Indian Ambassador to the UAE, attended the event and emphasized the importance of combining tradition with sustainability. He stated, "This celebration pays homage to the rich heritage of India while also aligning with the UAE’s commitment to sustainability."
Other dignitaries, including Mohammed Ahmed Al Yamahi and Naema Al Sharhan, expressed their enthusiasm for the event, highlighting the need for united action on sustainability. Al Yamahi remarked, "Just like each of us cherish our traditions, we must commit ourselves to nurturing a greener planet."
Inspiring Future Generations
The event also served as a platform for high school students to convey their climate change messages. More than two dozen students from various schools in the UAE participated, holding colorful signs to inspire action. This initiative aligns with Burjeel Holdings’ ongoing climate change challenge in collaboration with Oxford University’s Saïd Business School.
A Commitment to Sustainability
John Sunil, the group CEO of Burjeel Holdings, emphasized the organization’s dedication to aligning business practices with environmental responsibility. He stated, "Our celebration of Onam this year at Burjeel Medical City reminds us that cultural heritage and sustainable practices can go hand in hand."
The festivities concluded with a traditional Onam feast, bringing together staff members, their families, and patients in a spirit of camaraderie and celebration. This event not only highlighted the importance of sustainability but also fostered a sense of community among diverse participants, making it a memorable occasion for all involved.