Onam is one of the biggest festivals celebrated by Malayalees. It is celebrated in honour of Mahabali, the mythical Asura king of ancient Kerala. Mahabali returns to visit his subjects on the day of Onam. It is also a harvest festival, celebrated during August/September. The celebrations of Onam start on Atham (the first day), 10 days before Onam. Earthen mounds, representing Mahabali and Vamanan (an Avatar of Vishnu) are placed in the dung-plastered courtyards in front of the house and beautifully decorated with flowers called ‘Onapookalam’, a carpet made out of the gathered flowers.
People wear new dresses, visit as many temples as they can, perform dances like Thiruvathira kali Thumbi Tullal.The most important thing is the grand lunch (sadya) on the Thiuruvonam day, which is also called the Second Onam. This is usually a feast served on banana leaves with rice along and at least 15 dishes. Traditional pickles and papadam are also served. Dessert is usually 'payasam' and other traditional Indian savories. There is a saying in Malayalam: "Kanam Vittum Onam Unnanam" which means "We should have the Thiruvonam lunch even if we have to
sell all our properties" which shows the importance of the grand lunch on the Thiruvonam day.
The Vallamkali (the snake boat race) is another event that is synonymous with Onam. About 100 men row huge and graceful snake boats and men and women come from far and near to watch the snake boats skim through the water. Boat races are also conducted.
“During onam there is equality among our people. In Kerala it is an extraordinary festival. My family invites under privileged workers around our neighborhood. People at home get together with great joy. The pookalam is the most adorned part of this event. We prepare only exotic vegetarian food. Friends and relatives set a great ambience. It’s a very nice feeling, a great time to relax, forget all our worries and plunge into creative activities. Once someone experiences that joy it’s hard to forget it,” says Dr Shanty Mathew, Lecturer, Chemistry Department.
Sijo K C, II IES, says, “It’s indeed a pleasurable occasion. I get together with family members. Eat traditional Kerala foods and hang out in hot spots with my buddies.”
“I am a hostelite and I really miss my family on this special occasion. I am going to celebrate in the best possible way with my friends here,” says Indu Joseph of III HEP.
“Since it’s a joyous occasion, we as an entire family get together. I usually get brand new clothes for my kids. We invite friends and celebrate in a traditional way,” adds Dr Mohan Das, Professor, Chemistry Department.
- Lakshmi Thomas I MS Com
No comments:
Post a Comment