LONDON July 8 2010 Thursday: Kerala Carnival 2010 opened amid thrumming drumbeats and gentle river breeze to an enthusiastic audience on London’s South Bank on Thursday. The two-day carnival was flagged off by London’s famous elephant man and brother of the Duchess of Cornwall,Mark Shand.

Shand applauded the organizers for the apt representation of Kerala,I have visited Kerala for my interest in elephants and Kerala indeed is a fascinating place. Congratulations to Here&Now365 for bringing all its elements to London city.

A medley of dance and music performances from Kerala played on stage to a rapt audience.

Visitors thronged the stalls by the River Thames for all things Kerala – refreshing coconut water,delicious vegetarian dosas and chutneys, relaxing ayurvedic massages, and authentic handicrafts.

Minister for Health and Social Welfare (Government of Kerala) P K Sreemathi Teacher said,“I am verypleased to see the interest in ayurvedic therapies here. Many more across the world should try ourtraditional and effective medicine system.”

A host of other dignitaries from India and Britain visited the carnival. Among them were Bollywood actor Dalip Tahil,Deputy Mayor of Greater London Richard Barnes, Member of Parliament Rajya Sabha, (Government of India) Dr. T N Seema Jayraj,Secretary Health (Govt. of Kerala) Usha Titus,Director India Tourism London Jagdish Chander and Chief Executive European Operations Bank of Baroda S S Mundra.

The chief carnival supporters Bank of Baroda,Sony Entertainment Television Asia (SET Asia),Incredible India, Kerala – God’s Own Country and Kerala Travel Centre were also present at the event.