Onam, also known as Thiruvonam, is a vibrant and significant festival celebrated in the South Indian state of Kerala. It is one of the most cherished and widely celebrated festivals in the region. Onam marks the homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali, who is believed to visit Kerala during this time.
The festival falls in the month of Chingam (August-September) according to the Malayalam calendar and lasts for ten days. The main day of celebration is known as Thiruvonam, which is considered the most auspicious day of the festival.
Here are some key aspects and traditions associated with Onam/Thiruvonam:
- Floral Rangoli (Pookalam): One of the prominent features of Onam is the creation of intricate and colorful floral designs called Pookalam. These designs are made using various flowers, petals, and leaves arranged in beautiful patterns on the floor, typically in front of the house. Pookalam symbolizes prosperity and is a visual treat during the festival.
- Traditional Attire: Onam is a time when people wear traditional attire. Men wear Mundu (a white cloth wrapped around the waist) with a Kasavu (golden border), and women wear traditional sarees like Kasavu sarees, which are off-white with golden borders. The traditional attire adds to the festive ambiance.
- Onam Sadhya: The grand Onam feast, known as Onam Sadhya, is a significant part of the celebrations. It is a sumptuous vegetarian meal served on a banana leaf. The Sadhya typically includes a variety of dishes such as rice, sambar, avial (a mixed vegetable curry), thoran (stir-fried vegetables with coconut), pachadi (a yogurt-based side dish), and payasam (sweet dessert). The Sadhya is enjoyed with family and friends.
- Vallamkali (Boat Race): Vallamkali, the traditional snake boat race, is a major attraction during Onam. It takes place in the backwaters of Kerala, where teams of rowers paddle in unison, accompanied by cheering spectators. The most famous boat race is the Nehru Trophy Boat Race held in Alappuzha, drawing participants from across the state.
- Kaikottikali and Thiruvathirakali: These are traditional dance forms performed by women during the Onam festivities. Kaikottikali is a group dance where women form a circle and dance rhythmically clapping their hands. Thiruvathirakali is a graceful dance performed by women in a circular formation around a lamp.
- Pulikali: Pulikali, also known as the Tiger Dance, is a vibrant folk art form that is performed during Onam. Men paint their bodies to resemble tigers or other animals and dance through the streets, showcasing their creativity and entertaining the spectators.
- Onapottan: Onapottan, also known as the King Mahabali impersonator, is an integral part of Onam celebrations. A person dressed as King Mahabali visits households, distributing sweets and blessings to the residents.
Onam is a time of joy, cultural pride, and togetherness in Kerala. It showcases the rich traditions, art forms, and cuisine of the region. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm, bringing people together to honor their cultural heritage and create lasting memories.