Festival of the Month: Onam
This month, the people of Kerala, situated on the southwest coast of India, celebrated the festival of Onam. The vibrant 10-day harvest festival marks the homecoming of the legendary King Mahabali, a beloved ruler who, according to Hindu legend, is said to visit his people once a year during this time.
Steeped in cultural heritage, Onam is celebrated not only in Kerala but by Malayalis around the world. From the creation of beautiful Pookalam (floral designs) to grand feasts known as Onasadya, and the exhilarating Vallamkali (snake boat races) held in Kerala’s serene backwaters, the festival offers a unique display of tradition, unity, and joy.
Discover what makes this incredible celebration so special.
Day One: Welcoming with Pookalam
The Onam festival begins with Pookalam, beautiful floral carpets that grace the entrances of homes. Made using fresh, colourful petals, these intricate designs grow larger and more elaborate with each day of the festival.
Creating a Pookalam is a collaborative activity that unites family members, symbolising togetherness and community spirit. It often becomes a social event, with neighbours and friends often joining to contribute.
The choice of flowers is important, with vibrant varieties like marigolds, jasmine, and chrysanthemums favoured for their striking hues and fragrances. Each Pookalam is unique, setting the festive tone and marking the start of the joyful 10-day celebration.
Vibrant Performances and Traditions
Onam is not just about feasts and flowers—it’s also known for its captivating performances and traditional games. One of the most exciting displays is Pulikali, where performers paint themselves as tigers and enact lively hunting scenes, entertaining crowds with their dynamic and playful movements.
On the other hand, Kummattikali performers wear elaborate costumes made from grass and large wooden masks, moving from house to house to entertain children and collect small gifts.
Sports enthusiasts will love the thrill of the festival too, with a variety of games ranging from indoor card games to activities like archery, combat sports, and the iconic snake boat races. These races, held in Kerala’s serene backwaters, feature long, snake-shaped boats rowed by teams of oarsmen. These races attract large crowds and offer a truly spectacular sight.
Thiruvonam: The Grand Finale
Thiruvonam, the final and most significant day of the Onam festival, is a time of joy and celebration. Homes are meticulously cleaned, and families start the day with early morning baths, dressing in new clothes, and offering prayers.
At the heart of Thiruvonam is the grand feast known as Onasadya, a lavish meal served on banana leaves that features an array of up to 30 dishes, ranging from spicy curries to the sweet delicacy of payasam. This elaborate spread is a highlight of the festival, showcasing the rich culinary traditions of Kerala.
The feast is such a cherished tradition that there’s a saying in Malayalam, ‘Kanam Vittu Onam Unnanam,’ meaning, ‘We should have the Thiruvonam lunch even if we have to sell all our properties.’ It reflects the importance of coming together for this special meal, regardless of financial circumstances.
Onam is a celebration of togetherness, where communities, families, and friends come together to share in the joy of the harvest and express gratitude for life’s blessings. Whether it’s through the making of a Pookalam, sharing a meal, or dancing in the streets, Onam bridges the past and present, keeping alive the traditions that define Kerala’s rich cultural heritage.
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