Onam is one of the most vibrant and beloved festivals of Kerala, celebrated with grandeur by Malayalees across the world. Known as the state festival of Kerala and also regarded as the harvest festival, Onam brings together family, food, tradition, and cultural richness.
The Legend of Onam
Onam is celebrated in honour of King Mahabali, the mythical ruler of Kerala. Beloved by his people for his wisdom, generosity, and fairness, King Mahabali’s reign is remembered as a golden era. According to legend, Lord Vishnu, in the form of Vamana, sent King Mahabali to the netherworld but granted him permission to visit his people once every year. Onam marks this annual homecoming of the king, and Malayalees welcome him with joy and devotion.
When is Onam Celebrated?
Onam falls in the month of Chingam, the first month of the Malayalam calendar. The festival lasts for ten days, starting with Atham and culminating on Thiruvonam (the most auspicious day). Each day has its own significance, rituals, and unique traditions.
Traditions and Celebrations
The spirit of Onam comes alive through a variety of cultural expressions:
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Pookalam (Floral Rangoli): Beautiful floral carpets, called Onapookkalam, are designed at the entrance of homes using vibrant flowers. Each day, new layers of flowers are added, symbolizing prosperity and joy.
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Onakkodi (New Clothes): Buying and wearing new clothes is an integral tradition, representing renewal and celebration.
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Onathappan: Many families install an idol of Thrikkakara Appan (Lord Vishnu in Vamana form) at home as part of the rituals.
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Cultural Performances: Kerala’s traditional art forms like Thiruvathira (women’s group dance), Kathakali, Pulikali (tiger dance), Thumbi Thullal, and Kummattikali are performed across the state. The rhythmic songs (Onappaatt) and joyful swings add to the festive cheer.
The Grand Onam Sadya
No Onam celebration is complete without the famous Onam Sadya – a lavish vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf.
A traditional Sadya includes 13–15 dishes, and in temples or hotels, the number can go up to 30 items. The spread features a delightful variety of curries, pickles, papadam, and payasam (a sweet dish made with milk, jaggery, or sugar). The balanced combination of flavours – sweet, sour, salty, and spicy – makes the Sadya not just a meal, but an experience that reflects Kerala’s culinary richness.
Here are some Onam Sadya recipes you can try at home:
- Kerala Style Parippu Curry | Parippu Curry for Onam Sadya
- Mathanga Erissery | Kerala Pumpkin Curry Recipe | Onam Sadya Dishes
- Kumbalanga Pulissery | Kumbalanga Mor Curry Recipe | Onam Sadya Recipes
- Kootu Curry Recipe | Kerala Style Kootu Kari Recipe
- Inji Thayir | Yogurt with Ginger | Sadaya Recipes
- Mor Curry | Kerala style Moru Kachiyathu | Butter Milk Curry
- Kerala Olan Recipe | Sadya Recipe
- Inji Puli | Inji Curry | Puli Inji Recipe
- Cabbage Thoran | Kerala Style Cabbage Stir-Fry
- Ada Pradaman Recipe | Palada Pradaman Recipe
- Kalan Recipe | Kerala Style Kalan Recipe
- Sarkara Varatti | Kerala Sarkara Upperi | Jaggery Coated Plantain Chips Recipe
Onam Beyond Kerala
Today, Onam is celebrated not only in Kerala but by Malayalee communities worldwide. It has become a symbol of unity, togetherness, and gratitude for nature’s bounty. Whether it’s preparing a grand Sadya at home, decorating with pookalam, or simply dressing up in Onakkodi, Onam continues to bring families closer and spread happiness.
