Onam: The grand festival of Kerala 

Onam is a grand festival celebrated with immense fervour and cultural significance in the state of Kerala. Let us delve into the vibrant tapestry of traditions, rituals, and festivities that define this joyous occasion! 

Onam, an annual harvest festival, holds a special place in the hearts of Malayalis, the people of Kerala. Observed during the month of Chingam, also known as (Shravana or Avani), which usually falls in August or September, Onam is celebrated as a ten-day extravaganza of the abundant harvest of the period. Through vibrant cultural rituals, such as Pookkalam or floral carpets, Thiruvathira Kali dance, and the famous boat races known as Vallamkali, Onam showcases the rich heritage and wonderfully preserved traditions of the community. Everything culminates with the grand Onam Sadya is a special feast prepared for the day!  

As with most Indian festivals, folklore has it that Onam is a celebration of King Mahabali, a legendary ruler revered for his virtuous rule and generosity. The popular belief is that, during Onam King Mahabali visits his subjects, bringing prosperity and joy to the land. The festival serves as a grand welcome and an expression of gratitude to the beloved king.

One of the things that anyone associated with Onam is the breath-taking and exquisite designs and patterns made using locally flowers and leaves. Pookkalam, or ‘floral carpets’ can be found adorning every front porch and several public spaces. These floral designs are meticulously arranged usually by the ladies in the household and with each passing year the Pookkalam grows in size and complexity, combining devotion with a spirit of competition!

During Onam, the traditional dance form of KaiKotti Kali takes centre astage. Women dressed in traditional attire form circles and gracefully perform rhythmic movements and clapping. The mesmerizing dance embodies elegance and grace and is a fascinating display of tradition and cultural heritage.

No discussion of Onam can complete without mentioning the elaborate feast known as Onam Sadya. Served on fresh banana leaves, this elaborate vegetarian meal consists of a wide array of dishes, including avial (a mixed vegetable curry), olan (ash gourd in coconut milk), and thoran (stir-fried vegetables with coconut). The grand finale of the feast is the delectable payasam, a sweet dessert that leaves taste buds longing for more.

The annual snake boat race is a much awaited fixture not just amongst the locals, but these days amongst tourists too. Sports enthusiasts have their share of excitement during Onam with the iconic Vallamkali.  The otherwise calm and serene backwaters of God’s Own Country come to life once a year during onam when the enormous traditional boats, manned by skilled rowers create an electrifying atmosphere.  

This year’s 10 day Onam celebrations will begin on the 20th of August and culminate on Tiruvonam day on 31st August

This year’s 10 day Onam celebrations will begin on the 20th of August and culminate on Tiruvonam day on 31st August