Over 100 healthcare workers made a giant pookalam with 600kg of flowers in the atrium of Burjeel Holdings’ flagship facility to celebrate Onam.
Abu Dhabi: In Abu Dhabi, Burjeel Medical City (BMC) created a stunning pookkalam, a traditional floral carpet, to celebrate the Indian harvest festival of Onam. This vibrant floral tribute reflects both the spirit of Onam and the core values of the UAE, including generosity, tolerance, and togetherness.
The massive pookkalam, made from 600kg of fresh flowers flown in from India, was arranged by over 100 healthcare workers in the hospital’s atrium. This beautiful display also highlighted the UAE’s recently introduced visa amnesty program, which allows people to regularise their visa status without penalties. The inclusion of this theme in the floral design symbolised the UAE’s kindness and commitment to helping those in need.
Dr. Sanjai Kumar, Chief Human Resources Officer of Burjeel Holdings, shared the meaning behind the display: “Onam is a time to celebrate community and unity. This year, we wanted our floral carpet to represent not just the festival but also the generosity of the UAE, especially with initiatives like the visa amnesty.”
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While Onam is usually celebrated with grand events at BMC, this year’s festivities were more subdued to honour the lives affected by the recent landslides in Wayanad, Kerala. The hospital chose to reflect on the disaster, showing solidarity with those impacted. The floral carpet symbolised hope, strength, and the importance of coming together during difficult times.
Through this unique pookkalam, Burjeel Medical City brought together the themes of Onam and the UAE’s values, offering a powerful message of compassion, unity, and inclusivity for all. This floral display served as a reminder of the shared spirit of generosity and the importance of helping others.
