What a phenomenal gathering of energy, culture, and connection! From the very first welcome by the Swagatham team led by Dr. Manju Rajeev — who made everyone feel at home despite the challenges — to the final note of Sangeetha Sagaram with Unni Menon, Franco Neelankavil and Lakshimi Nair, this convention was nothing short of magical.
Dr. Reena Kavilavettil (Convention Chair) and Dr. Benjamin Tharian (Co-Chair) led a challenging sponsorship drive with creativity and persistence. The Florida team, along with Jiju Kavilavettil, played an essential role in the execution. Reena’s unmatched attention to detail — from flyers to food, mementos to meetings — was a key ingredient in the convention’s success. Special thanks to Dr. Usha Mohandas for her valuable guidance and to Ammu Javitta for designing the convention logo. Sandra Banhart, Dymmy, and team efficiently coordinated pre-convention registration and ship logistics, keeping everything on track.
On stage, Swathi Nrityanjali’s dancers, coordinated by Dr. Nisha Nijil, the fashion show Bloom 2025 led by Dr. Zeena Ashraf, and Glitz n Glori by Dr. Justin Ferns dazzled audiences. Our incredible MCs — Dr. Manju Rajeev, Farhan Nigil Haroon, Dr. Nigil Haroon, Dr. Savitha Rajan, Dr. Geetha Nair, and Dr. Biju Poulose, Dr. Sheela Thomas, Dr. Archana Abhayambika— ensured smooth transitions throughout the event.
Dr. Binoy Skaria’s karaoke team at the Karaoke Night and his voice modulation class brought music lovers together, adding fun, learning, and vibrant energy to the musical side of the convention.The lively DJ Night by Farco had everyone on their feet, bringing high energy and non-stop dancing to cap off an unforgettable evening of celebration. Ms. Nikki Biju’s rendition of the U.S. national anthem was extraordinary, delivered with grace and emotion that set a patriotic and heartfelt tone for the event.
Blast from the Past, conceived by Reena, coordinated by Dr. Sreekala Satheesh, revived college camaraderie beautifully. Dr. Arif Kondoth’s “Swan Song”, a one-man drama, delivered a powerful and thought-provoking performance. Meanwhile, Dr. Aravind Pillai’s yoga sessions, group walks, and gym meetups kept the wellness spirit alive.
We also enjoyed enriching literary sessions with Drs. Iyer, K.E. Mathew, and Thekedath Mathew, and a standout talk show hosted by Ammu Javitta and Dr. Nigil Haroon, who uncovered the stories behind Unni Menon and Franco Neelankavil’s musical journeys.
The vote of thanks on the first two nights was graciously delivered by Dr. Thomas Rajan (President-Elect) and Dr. Shelby Kutty (Vice President), recognizing the efforts of all contributors and setting a tone of gratitude and unity. The CME sessions, led by Dr. Srikanth Vishwanathan and Dr. Rajesh Ramachandran, were among the best-attended segments of the convention and were highly informative, leaving attendees enriched and inspired. On the final night, we proudly recognized on stage the 11 past presidents who attended the event, along with all our generous sponsors, honoring their lasting contributions and continued support for AKMG. We also had the honor of presenting Lifetime Achievement Awards to Dr. Aravind Pillai and Dr. George Thomas, in recognition of their outstanding service, dedication, and lasting impact on the AKMG community. We celebrated Dr. Iyer’s birthday along with all July birthdays, and topped it off with a specially arranged delicious Kerala-style dinner on the final evening.
The late-night Antakshari, organized spontaneously by Dr. Thomson Chemplavil, Dr. Surjith Vattoh, and Dr. Joji Vargheese, became an unexpected highlight. Braving rain and venue changes, it brought everyone together in laughter and music — a true bonding moment.
On the final evening, we held raffle draws, including the giveaway of a stunning $2,000 diamond ring, generously arranged by Dr. Subra Bhat, adding an extra sparkle to the celebration.
A quiet but heroic moment came when Dr. Joji Vargheese and Dr. Jooby John, through timely diagnosis and follow-up, helped a friend in need — a powerful reminder of the compassion within our AKMG family.
Special thanks to Biju Zacharia for photo sessions, and the AV team, Jibin, and Jeeve, whose behind-the-scenes expertise ensured every sound, spotlight, and screen ran flawlessly throughout the convention.
🎉 We also warmly welcomed Dr. Elizabeth Mammen-Prasad as our new AKMG President, following a smooth and graceful transition of leadership.
🎶 Sangeetha Sagaram was the perfect grand finale to an unforgettable AKMG Convention.
Signing off,
Dr Deepu Sudhakaran
President, AKMG
Deepu Sudhakaran MD, MBA, FACS, FASMBS
Immediate Past President, AKMG
Reena Kavilaveettil MD
Chair, AKMG Cruise convention 2025
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