What is the big deal about Onam? Why is it such a big celebration?
Nice question!
Onam is not just any festival but a major constituent of Kerala’s cultural identity. It brings all people together irrespective of their societal position to celebrate unity, generosity, and togetherness.
Onam, Kerala’s most cherished festival, is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s an experience that touches every heart, whether you’re a native or simply visiting during this vibrant time. The spirit of Onam is all about unity, joy, and cultural pride. And what better place to experience it all than at Sukrutham Farmstay, where the essence of Kerala comes alive in every corner?
Onam: Its Origin and the Story of a Benevolent King
The story of Onam dates back to the time when myth and reality melted into one legend to inspire generations. The soul of Onam is the story of King Mahabali, the most righteous and kind ruler, loved by his people. The regime of Mahabali formed the golden period of Kerala-when plenty reigned, when peace reigned, and when equality reigned. During his rule, there was no poverty and above all, no cheating or deception; everybody was equally dear to one another.
Imagine a world where everyone had enough; the day was ruled by kindness, and the people loved their king as much as he loved them. That is the world Mahabali created, and that is why his story finds it being deeply interwoven into the cultural fabric of Kerala.
But with all great tales, there does come a turn. Indeed, the Gods above did grow alarmed that Mahabali was becoming too mighty, too loved, and perhaps most of all the Kingdom shone a little too bright. Well, the Gods being Gods couldn’t let that be. So to help them out, they went to Lord Vishnu.
Now, Lord Vishnu does have quite the reputation for guile, and in this story, he most certainly didn’t disappoint. He was to assume the avatar of Vamana, a dwarf Brahmin, before going before Mahabali with a modest request: three paces of land. The latter, being ever generous, agreed without suspecting any hitch. But as Vamana proceeded to take his steps, he revealed his true self in such magnitude that one fall of his foot on the ground covered the earth; the second covered the heavens, and with a third, he placed his foot on the head of Mahabali, pushing him into the nether world.
But herein lies the coolest thing about Mahabali-his love for his people was so great that he was granted this special boon. The fact that he could return to Kerala once a year to see his people, and make sure they are happy and thriving, and it is that which happens annually that we celebrate as Onam.
Are you eager to experience the vibrant Onam traditions, savor the mouthwatering delicacies of the Onam feast, and discover how the celebrations unfold?
Read on to find out!
Onam Traditions: Unity and Culture at Farmhouse in Kerala
These ten days represent a continuum of Onam-like elaboration, each thread a shade of varied hue, skillfully interwoven into the rich tapestry that is the cultural heritage of Kerala. And incredibly, everything about Onam tradition-from early morning grand processions down to cozy family gatherings over feasts-carried with them the spirit of oneness, joy, and pride in culture.
- Athachamayam
The whole procession amidst music and dance, the passing of floats on the road, fills the atmosphere with quaint music, traditional art, folk music, and dancing events reflecting Kerala’s ethnic diversity. Rather, it is the right move toward setting a festive mood, and it also manages to engage one and all generally, locals and tourists. The enthusiasm of Athachamayam is infectious; you cannot hold on to yourself from catching the spirit in the air.
- Pookalam
One of the most striking traditions of Onam is the creation of Pookalam, a floral carpet adorning the entrance of homes. Every morning, the family comes together to lay fresh flowers in intricate patterns, starting with a simple design on the first day and adding layers as the days go by. By Thiruvonam, the Pookalam is a resplendent many-coloured work of art. It is a manifestation of joy and togetherness artistically. Each Pookalam is unique and reflects the artistic flair of the family that does it.
- Thiruvathira
Thiruvathira is not just a dance but is about the love, tradition, and togetherness of the community. The eve of Thiruvonam sees women in their fine white and gold sarees get together to perform this traditional dance around a lit lamp. The rhythmic movements of songs with graceful movements create an enchanting view. Thiruvathira usually takes place in the early hours of the morning and adds serenity and divinity to the festive celebrations.
- Kaikottikali
The mere fact that those who have watched this dance know how it epitomizes the spirit of Onam. Groups of women and girls sit in a circle, clapping hands, beating their feet to the rhythm, and swaying to traditional songs with perfect harmony. It is a very simple dance-the joy and camaraderie it invokes are special. It is mostly performed in the courtyard of a house or the common hall and is one of those traditions that bind everybody together, whatever the age.
- Vallamkali
The snake boat race, the adrenalin rush of the Vallamkali is simply something you have got to experience to believe. Picture long, narrow boats slicing through the backwaters, propelled by the synchronized efforts of hundreds of rowers. Again, the excitement of competition to be the fastest amongst themselves and the sight of these magnificent boats whizzing in the water is not easily forgotten. The traditional songs associated with the boat races keep the rowers enthused and add to the festivity of the occasion.
- Pulikali
The Pulikali or tiger dance is the place where tradition meets frolicking fun. Colors of yellow, orange, and black paint these men into tigers, then into the streets to dance to every rhythm of the traditional drums. Wild energy to artful expressions-everything mesmerizes viewers of any age group in Pulikali dance. Pulikali reminds one that Onam isn’t all about rituals but is equally about loosening up and having a great time.
- Onam Sadya
No Onam is complete without this elaborate feast, which is called Onam Sadya. Being served on a banana leaf, the meal consists of an array of dishes succeeding each other in endless succession-each more delectable than the previous one the pungent Inji Puli to the sweet Payasam: Sadya is nothing but a gastronomic experience that instantly cements families together. The sadhya itself is prepared as an event in which everybody in the house lends a helping hand. At the time of serving, feasting becomes one collective experience of joy, gratitude, and community.
These are traditions that make Onam all the more poignant and make it much more than just a festival. They are the witness to highly celebrated culture, the time for the reunion of families, and the values that ultimately bind us all.
Be a Keralite or an Onam-loving cultural enthusiast; traditions at Onam are bound to leave you with a memory to remember. Come to Sukrutham Farmstay, where these customs are respected in their distinctive activities, and that makes your experience unique.
Mouthwatering Delicacies of the Onam Feast
Onam itself is just a dream for any foodie, especially with the epic Onam Sadya right at its heart. This meal is not about filling plates but about having a flavorsome-packed meal touching exactly at the right place. Each recipe prepared in a Sadya is made with such a lot of love and affection that every single bite feels like a celebration.
- Kootu Curry: Black chickpea and an assortment of vegetables in coconut-based gravy, imagine it. There, that is Kootu Curry to your richly flavored dish that shouldn’t be left out in the Onam Sadya arrangement.
- Olan: A light creation made with a mild-tasting white gourd, cowpeas, and coconut milk together in a light and fragrant curry, Olan gives a light hug to your taste buds, leaving an aftertaste on your taste buds.
- Thoran: It’s a synonym for the ultimate sidekick. A dry preparation made using finely chopped cabbage, beans, or carrots sautéed with grated coconut and spices, this is simple and tasty and a must-have on the Sadya menu.
- Parippu Curry: Parippu Curry is a curry lentil made from moong dal with spices of green chilies, tempered with a good dollop of ghee. This is the first dish that starts the Sadya – mixed with rice and pappadam, comfort food.
- Inji Puli: This is the sour-spicy star of Sadya; let me introduce you to Inji Puli. A ginger tamarind chutney brings so much zest onto your plate that it perfectly balances the mild flavors of the other dishes.
- Ada Pradhaman: Of course, we have Ada Pradhaman, which is considered the royalty of payasam. Made with rice flakes, jaggery, and coconut milk, it is such a rich sweet dessert, actually the ultimate way of bringing your feast to a high note.
We have chefs, proud of preparing an authentic Onam Sadya at Sukrutham Farmstay using fresh organic farm produce from our very own farm. The feast is not about the food but about sharing it with loved ones, creating new memories, and savoring the tastes of Kerala.
Why Onam Matters to All of Us?
What of those who are not in Kerala? Do they get to celebrate?
Onam is a festival that warms the cockles of people’s hearts and stirs something deep inside, not just in God’s own country but worldwide. Wholly identified in its spirit with togetherness, tradition, and community, this festival crosses mechanical geographical barriers and brings together culturally a ground of diverse section of human society.
That feeling of integration is in plenty at Sukrutham Farmstay once it is time for Onam. All the spirit of the festival comes alive here and reinforces the bond among all-irrespective of status or creed.
Onam is that festival that breaks all borders, and it’s an open invitation to all. A time for admiration for whatever united love the year in the past had brought upon them and much anticipation for the year that follows in succession. Onam will give you, new and old, chances that are rather rare to come in contact with and all that is rich in the way of cultural backdrops that are strewn all over the panorama of Kerala.
Experience the renowned warmth and hospitality of Kerala at Sukrutham Farmstay during Onam. At Farm Stay In Kerala, the true spirit of the festival comes alive amidst the serene beauty of nature. At our farm, you’ll immerse yourself in the essence of Onam while appreciating the values of community, tradition, and the simple joys that make life so sweet.
Take this Onam at Sukrutham Farmstay, amidst a festival of unleashing immense enthusiasm. Welcome traditions with great fervor, savor the delicious taste of Sadya, and weave never-ending memories with your family and close friends. We welcome you to our Farmhouse In Kerala, where each smile, each dance, and each delicious meal will carry with it the contagious spirit of Onam.