With the rains bidding adieu to Kerala, the state is all prepared to welcome the harvest season with vigor and joy. Obviously, it’s time for the biggest celebrations in the land of South India – the cultural fiesta that is Onam. Celebrated over the course of 10 days during the first Malayalam month of Chingam (August-September), this vibrant harvest festival marks the homecoming of Mahabali.
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The legend goes that the spirit of the mythical demon king, who ruled in ancient Kerala and was loved by people for his generosity and virtue, returns to Earth from Patal Lok once every year at the time of Onam. Here we would tell you about the major attractions of Onam:
Pookkalam
Pookkalam refers to making designs with different types of flowers in the front gate of the house. With each passing day during the Onam festival, a new layer of flowers is added to the Pookalam. At some places, Pookalam competitions are also held.
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Onasadya
This the grand meal prepared at the day Thiruonam. Onasadya meal is served on a Banana leaf and is a nine-course meal having at least four to five vegetables. The number of vegetables in the meal varies from house to house but most of the well off families cook nine to eleven dishes for the Onasadya. Restaurants offer as many as 30 dishes for the Onasadya.
Vallamkali
A major reason why Onam is the best time to visit Kerala is the world-famous snake boat race, which takes place across the state. Unique to God’s Own Country, this impressive rowing event, also called Vallamkali, sees massive boats being rowed by 100s of exciting people on the Pampa River.
Elephant Procession
The spectrum of Onam gets its shade of royalty with the regal elephant ride that takes place at Thrissur, the cultural capital of Kerala. Decked in gold, the favorite animal of royal India looks even more magnificent. Someone who loves animals would definitely love this procession.
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Athachamayam
Athachamayam kicks off the 10-day long festivities with a colorful street procession from the royal town of Thripunithura near Kochi to Thrikkakara Temple. During the parade, you can see intricately-decorated elephants marching down the streets with music and drum beats, dancers, traditional art forms, carnival floats and people dressed in vibrant attire.
