Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan Set for Historic Qatar Visit After 12-Year Gap; ‘Malayalolsavam 2025’ Inauguration on Agenda

Doha, Qatar: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is scheduled to arrive in Qatar tomorrow, October 30, 2025 (Thursday), marking the first visit by a state Chief Minister to the Gulf nation in 12 years. The visit, highly anticipated by the expatriate community, includes official meetings and the inauguration of a major cultural festival.

Organizers confirmed that elaborate preparations have been finalized to welcome the Chief Minister.

Key Engagements

Upon his arrival in Doha on Thursday morning, CM Vijayan is set to participate in several high-profile events. His itinerary includes:

Official Meetings: A meeting with key Qatari government officials to discuss and strengthen bilateral ties, particularly concerning the welfare of the Malayali diaspora.

Community Interaction: A midday gathering at the Sheraton Hotel where the Chief Minister will interact with prominent Indian business and trade leaders, as well as representatives from various Malayali organizations in Qatar.

Inauguration of Malayalolsavam 2025
The highlight of the visit will be the inauguration of the ‘Malayalolsavam 2025’ cultural festival at the Ideal Indian School Ground in Abu Hamour at 6:00 PM.

The event, a joint initiative by the Loka Kerala Sabha and the Malayalam Mission Samskruthi Qatar Chapter, is being held to celebrate the state’s rich cultural heritage. The festival grounds will feature pavilions showcasing the unique traditions and features of all 14 districts of Kerala, organized by respective district associations.

In addition to CM Vijayan, the event will be attended by a host of dignitaries, including:
H.E. Vipul, the Indian Ambassador to Qatar.
Kerala Fisheries and Culture Minister Saji Cheriyan.
Businessman and philanthropist Dr. M. A. Yusuff Ali.
Kerala Chief Secretary Dr. A. Jayathilak.

Sub-committees comprising representatives from various Malayali organizations have overseen the extensive arrangements, including providing vehicle facilities from areas across Qatar such as Al Khor, Mesaieed, and Wakra, ensuring widespread participation from the community. The festival is expected to be a vibrant display, featuring cultural programs, dance performances, and Chenda Melam (traditional drumming).

TIM Qatar

For more details: Navamalayalam.com