Traditional Onam Rituals: Pookalam, Sadya, and Vallam Kali
Onam is the harvest festival of God’s own country, Kerala.
The celebrations span over ten days, with the rich heritage of the state coming in full bloom.
From traditional dances to boat races and recreational games, people participate in these with gusto.
Onam Sadya – a hearty, wholesome meal is the highlight of this Hindu festival. However, the celebrations are not just limited to Kerala.
Malayalis across the world get together to enjoy this festival, often exchanging Onam Gifts Online to share the joy with loved ones far and wide.
| Festival | Details |
|---|---|
| Festival | Onam |
| Dates | September 6 – September 15, 2024 |
| Main Rituals | Pookalam, Sadya, Vallam Kali |
| Folk Dances | Kaikottikali, Pulikali |
| Traditional Attire | Set mundu and jewelry for women; veshti mundu for men |
Onam 2024 Date
Onam is celebrated during the Malayalam month of Chingam. Hence, it falls in August or September. The festival starts on the day of Attham Nakshatram, which is also Vinayak Chaturthi. Its culmination is on Thiruvonam Nakshatram. In 2024, the festivities will begin on September 6 and go on till September 15.
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Significance of Onam
Many legends govern Indian festivals, and Onam is no different. The people of Kerala believe that on this day, their King Mahabali, a mythological figure, visits the state. According to ancient scriptures, the land of Kerala prospered under this King. Hence, every year, he makes sure that the people in his kingdom are happy.
Traditional Rituals
The beauty of Onam lies in following the ancient rituals and traditions that generations have followed. These include:
- Pookalam
The art of rangoli takes a different form in Kerala. Instead of colored powders, varied hues of flowers are used to adorn the home entrance. Starting from Attham, every day, a new design is made. From intricate designs to simple mandalas, people create masterpieces during this time.
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- OnaSadya
The elaborate meal dished on the day of Onam is something that everyone looks forward to. Served on a banana leaf, the variety of dishes can go from 10 up to 24. You will get everything from rice to sambhar, avail, thoran, pachadi, khichadi, puli inji, olan, kaalan, koottu, payasam, etc. This wholesome meal is a joint effort of all the family members, the preparations for which begin a day ahead.
- Vallam Kali
The snake boats of Kerala take to the backwaters to compete against each other. This attracts huge crowds not only from Kerala but from across the world. The excitement of the boatmen is in tandem with that of the audience.
- Folk Dances
No festival is complete without some dance and merriment. When it comes to Onam, Kaikottikali, also known as Thiruvathirakali, is a dance performed by a group of women. The men take to the streets with their bodies painted with tiger stripes to perform Pulikali.
Planning and Preparation: Tips to Celebrate Onam in Style
Onam can be a joyous affair, whether you are in Kerala or somewhere else. Here are some ideas of how to enjoy this to the fullest.
- Make the Pookalam
Get some fresh flowers from your garden or the market. A few different varieties can help in creating a colorful pookalam. Separate the petals and use these to make the floral rangoli.
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- Prepare the Sadya
Sadya is the main attraction of Onam. Ask your family members and friends to chip in with cutting vegetables and grating the coconut. You can prepare pickles and chutneys beforehand. On Onam, start the cooking early to get the lunch ready on time.
- Dress Up in Traditional Attire
Onam is incomplete unless you wear the traditional clothes of Kerala. Women should drape themselves in a set mundu and pair it with some jewelry. Men can go for a veshti mundu and shirt.
The festival of Onam is all about bringing families and friends together. It doesn’t matter if you cannot get to Kerala for this event. Its essence lies in honoring your relationships and revisiting your traditions. So, embrace the spirit of Onam and enjoy the festivities!
FAQs
1. What is Onam?
Onam is a harvest festival celebrated in Kerala, India, featuring floral designs, a grand meal, and boat races.
2. When is Onam 2024?
Onam will be celebrated from September 6 to September 15, 2024.
3. What are the main rituals of Onam?
The main rituals include Pookalam (floral designs), Sadya (a grand meal), and Vallam Kali (boat races).
4. How is Onam celebrated?
Onam is celebrated with floral decorations, a variety of traditional dishes served on a banana leaf, and exciting boat races.
5. What should I wear for Onam?
Wear traditional Kerala attire: a set mundu and jewelry for women and a veshti mundu for men.
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