How is Kerala Celebrating Onam This Year?

Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 4 (NationPress) Kerala celebrated the onset of Onam on Thursday, ushering in the first day of a three-day extravaganza dedicated to its most significant cultural festival. The harvest festival, steeped in history and tradition, embodies a fusion of devotion, celebration, and community unity that cuts across caste, creed, and generations.

From the break of dawn, homes across the state were filled with excitement.

Women and children donned in traditional attire carefully arranged vibrant 'pookkalams' (flower carpets) at their doorsteps, welcoming the legendary King Mahabali, whose homecoming Onam honors.

Temples, public spaces, and marketplaces were adorned with flowers and lanterns, creating a festive ambiance.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan officially launched the week-long state-level Onam celebrations in the capital, emphasizing that the state’s unity, communal harmony, and inclusive mentality are pivotal for its progress and development.

“This year's theme is 'Onam Orumayude Eenam, the True Kerala Story'. The state government's 'Nava Kerala' initiative resonates with the essence of Onam, where even the most marginalized individuals are included in our societal advancements,” he remarked.

Central to Onam is the 'Onasadya' — an elaborate vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf. Families across Kerala began their preparations for this grand banquet today, which typically includes over two dozen dishes ranging from avial and sambar to sweet payasams that conclude the meal.

Numerous families also invited friends and relatives for early 'sadyas', reinforcing Onam’s essence as a festival of companionship.

The state government has organized various official events, including cultural fairs, art exhibitions, and performances, to highlight Kerala’s rich heritage.

Tourist destinations reported a surge in visitors, with special Onam packages attracting those eager to experience the state's vibrant festivities.

Markets were bustling as shoppers hurried to buy kasavu saris, bananas, flowers, and other essentials for the feast.

Onam represents more than just a festival; it is often described as the living cultural identity of Kerala.

This celebration signifies prosperity, equality, and unity, values linked to the glorious reign of Mahabali.

As the festivities ramp up over the next two days, culminating in Thiruvonam, Kerala’s spirit of inclusiveness and joy will shine brightly, uniting people through tradition, memory, and hope for abundance.

Interestingly, the Onam season brings a significant boost to the Kerala State Beverages Corporation, the sole wholesaler of liquor and beer, with record-breaking sales.

All educational institutions are closed and will reopen next week.