Onam - A primer for younger generation
Onam is a vibrant and colorful festival celebrated by the Malayalee community in India, especially in the southern state of Kerala. It is a ten-day festival that marks the homecoming of King Mahabali, who is believed to have ruled over Kerala in ancient times. The festival falls during the month of August or September, according to the Malayalam calendar.
Onam is a time of joy and celebration, with people coming together to participate in various cultural activities and festivities. The festival is marked by the traditional "Onam Sadhya," a grand feast comprising of several vegetarian dishes served on banana leaves. The Sadhya is an integral part of Onam celebrations, and families spend hours preparing and sharing the feast with their loved ones.
One of the most iconic features of Onam is the "Pookalam," a floral carpet made of different flowers and designs, laid out on the floor in front of the entrance to homes and public spaces. The Pookalam is a symbol of prosperity and goodwill and is created by people of all ages, with each design unique in its own way.
Onam is also a time for traditional games and sports, including the iconic "Vallam Kali" or boat race. Teams of men row long wooden boats through the backwaters of Kerala, with the sounds of the oars and cheers of the spectators adding to the excitement of the event.
The festival culminates with the "Thiruvonam," the tenth day of the festival, where people dress up in their best traditional attire and come together to celebrate with their loved ones. The day is marked by various cultural programs, including dance, music, and theater performances, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Malayalee community.
Onam is not just a festival; it is a celebration of unity, diversity, and harmony. It is a time when people come together to forget their differences and celebrate their shared culture and traditions. The festival has become an important part of Kerala's identity, and people from all over the world come to experience the vibrancy and beauty of Onam celebrations.
In conclusion, Onam is a festival that celebrates the essence of the Malayalee community and its rich cultural heritage. It is a time of joy, love, and togetherness, where people come together to celebrate life and its many blessings. Onam is a festival that truly embodies the spirit of India, a country that celebrates diversity and unity in equal measure.
