Kerala Celebrates Onam with Joy and Tradition
Thiruvananthapuram, October 2023 — Kerala is buzzing with excitement as Onam, the biggest and most colorful festival of the state, kicks off its three-day celebration. People across Kerala are welcoming the harvest festival with enthusiasm, reflecting centuries of tradition, culture, and community spirit.
Early in the morning, households woke up to vibrant scenes. Women and children dressed in traditional Kerala costumes carefully arranged beautiful floral carpets called “pookkalam” at their doorsteps. These floral designs are a warm welcome to King Mahabali, whose annual visit during Onam symbolizes prosperity and happiness.
Throughout the state, temples, markets, and public spaces are decorated with flowers, lanterns, and lights, creating a festive atmosphere. Markets are lively as people buy last-minute items like traditional kasavu saris, bananas, and flowers for the grand feast.
Kerala’s Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan officially launched the week-long Onam celebrations organized by Kerala Tourism. He emphasized that Kerala’s unity, harmony, and inclusive mindset are key reasons behind its progress. He also highlighted the theme for this year’s festival — “Onam Orumayude Eenam, the Real Kerala Story” — which focuses on including everyone, especially the underprivileged, in the state’s growth and happiness.
A special highlight of Onam is the grand vegetarian feast called “Onasadya.” Kitchens across Kerala are busy preparing a variety of over 20 delicious dishes like avial, sambar, and sweet payasams. Families are gathering early to enjoy these local delicacies together, reinforcing the festival’s spirit of togetherness.
Apart from feasts, Kerala is hosting cultural fairs, art exhibitions, and traditional performances to showcase its rich heritage. Tourist spots are seeing more visitors than usual, with special Onam holiday packages attracting travelers eager to experience the festive atmosphere.
Onam is more than just a festival — it’s a reflection of Kerala’s cultural identity, symbolizing prosperity, equality, and unity. The celebrations will continue to grow over the next two days, leading up to Thiruvonam, the main day of the festival.
Interestingly, Onam also brings big business for Kerala’s liquor stores, with record sales reported by the Kerala State Beverages Corporation, the state’s sole supplier of alcohol.
All schools and colleges are closed for the holiday season and will reopen next week, as the entire state immerses itself in the joyful, inclusive spirit of Onam.
