Founded in 2005, the Kerala Association of Chattanooga, TN, US (KACTUS) is the first Kerala organization in Tennessee, dedicated to preserving and promoting the social, cultural, language, and artistic heritage of the Malayalee community in and around Chattanooga.
From its very first Onam celebration in October 2005, KACTUS has grown into a vibrant community that connects Malayalees across Tennessee and neighboring states, while warmly welcoming friends from other cultures who share in the spirit of unity and diversity.
The seeds of KACTUS were planted by a few passionate Malayalee families—Mr. & Mrs. Alex and Thara Kurien, their brother and sister-in-law - Mr. & Mrs. George and Susan Kurien, and Dr. Saji Gopinathan & Dr. Sudha Nair—who envisioned a platform to bring together the Kerala community in Chattanooga. Their first Onam celebration, held on October 24, 2005, brought families from Chattanooga, Knoxville, Nashville, and Huntsville together for a joyful day of cultural programs and a traditional potluck Onasadya.
Inspired by that success, the first community picnic at Harrison Bay State Park in July 2006 marked the official beginning of KACTUS. The KACTUS organization had its humble beginning during this Picnic Day! An Adhoc committee was formed with Dr. Jay Philipose selected as President, Dr. Saji Gopinathan as Vice President, Mrs. Thara Kurien as Secretary , Mr. George Kurien as Trustee and Mr. Riju Parambath, Mr. Mathew Zachariah and Mr. Roy Valliyanal as executive committee members laying down the mission and vision that continue to guide the association today.
Along with all others involved , there was great help, support and encouragement from all the families of the Chattanooga Ecumenical Prayer group behind this first get-together!
Mission: To promote the ethnic, social, and cultural heritage of Kerala while fostering unity among members, irrespective of religious or political affiliations. KACTUS also values and welcomes non-Keralites whose presence and participation enrich our community.
Vision: Promote the Kerala Heritage, Share the Kerala Values, Grow in the Unity of Diversity.
KACTUS has not only preserved traditions but also contributed to social causes—supporting disaster relief efforts both locally and in Kerala, including aid during the Kerala floods and Wayanad landslides.
Our journey would not have been possible without the dedication of countless volunteers, coordinators, and families. Special recognition goes to long-term contributors like Mrs. Sangeetha Chandran (lead program coordinator since 2006) and the unwavering support of families including Alex Kurien, Riju Parambath, Varughese John, and Zachariah Ignatius.
From a small gathering in 2005 to a strong and united association today, KACTUS continues to be a roof under which Malayalees celebrate their roots, share their values, and strengthen community ties in Chattanooga—the Scenic City.
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