Malayali teacher sparks viral Onam in Arunachal; viral reel draws minister’s attention

A 28‑year‑old teacher from Malappuram, Ali Ashkar, led students in Karo village to celebrate Kerala’s Onam, creating a colorful pookkalam and serving a sadya on banana leaves. The eight‑minute video, featuring traditional dances and Malayalam songs, went viral, amassing millions of views and catching the eye of Union Minister Kiren Rijiju. The event highlighted cultural unity, with teachers and students donning Kerala and local Arunachal attire.