Kerala - Kochi   

Banking on culture

What has a bank to do with culture? A lot. At least that was the impression one got during the inauguration of the centenary celebrations of the Bank of India held here last week.

The celebrations were launched by lighting the traditional lamp by K.S. Radhakrishnan, Vice Chancellor of Sree Sankara University of Sanskrit, who made some plain speaking on banking. Loans and credit cards are instruments to be chosen carefully, he said in a lighter vein.

A notable feature of the function was the honouring of two artistes, Kedamangalam Sadanandan and Kalamandalam Hyderali, who were also customers of the bank. They regaled the audience in their own way. Malayalis are stingy in complimenting others, Mr. Sadanandan observed. Keralites like to reminisce a bountiful past rather than preparing for a bright future, the 82-year old artiste known for portraying immortal characters through sheer eloquence, noted. Hyderali, who has carved a unique place in Kathakali music, sang a Mookambika sthuthi, penned and tuned by him. It was another occasion for the audience to rejoice. No doubt the choice of the guests of honour were well done by the bank authorities. It was not banking as usual, but an occasion fit to be remembered.

R. Ramabhadran Pillai

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