Thiruvananthapuram: Visitors heading to Kanakakunnu for Onam this year can look forward to new experiences, with the venue transformed into an entertainment hub featuring four themed zones offering technology, art, culture, games, food and shopping.The Future Zone, near the main entrance, introduces visitors to AI and robotics through startup stalls and interactive programmes on emerging technologies.The Art and Culture Zone’s major attraction is a ‘Vaalkannadi’ tunnel built with mirrors, flowers and decorative elements, which visitors can walk through and photograph.A mural workshop lets visitors contribute to a canvas that will become a collective artwork. A giant pot-shaped structure carries the message ‘Iniyennum Pookkaalam’. A traditional gateway and house verandah offer a glimpse into Kerala’s past, while live demonstrations of pottery-making, palm-leaf weaving and handicrafts introduce younger visitors to traditional skills.A chenda workshop lets visitors learn the traditional percussion instrument, while face painting, a maze game and other family entertainment round out the zone. Live performances and workshops on Tholpavakoothu, alongside Kathakali makeup demonstrations, offer a taste of Kerala’s performing arts. Film and documentary screenings are also planned.The Food Zone will feature around 15 stalls, while the Business Zone will host a trade fair and exhibition.
