After two years of keeping Onam low-key owing to the pandemic, Kerala Tourism is geared up to bring alive the vibrant festivities to the streets and homes of Kerala with carnivals, arts and artforms and a showcase of the rich and ancient traditions associated with the festival.
Inviting tourists and those who would like to witness and partake in the celebrations, Rupesh Kumar, Responsible Tourism Mission Coordinator, Government of Kerala says, “The Responsible Tourism Mission is providing an opportunity for tourists to be a part of Onam celebrations in villages too. There is also an opportunity to have Onam Sadya in the local homes.”
“Kerala Tourism is organising a wide range of Onam celebration programs in all the district centres. Onam procession will be resumed as a grand celebration in Thiruvananthapuram and the champions boat league was announced by Hon’ble Tourism Minister P.A. Muhammad Riaz,” he further informed.
Onam is the most revered festival of harvest, a rejoicing of the homecoming of the mythical demon King Mahabali. A celebration so special and dear to God’s own land; the 10 joyous days are astoundingly infectious across the country, beyond Kerala, and even overseas.
Larger than life, Onam’s ancient traditions reflect in every street and corner of Kerala beginning with the creation of Pookalam on Atham, the first day. Each passing day fills the air with brimming enthusiasm, a riot of colours, Pookamal face-offs, dances, local dramas and music.
Puli kali dances where people paint their bodies in yellow and white stripes and perform the ancient tiger dance on the fourth day of Onam is a photographer’s delight and joy to watch.
The 400-year old traditional snake boat race that marks day five has long claimed a space on the world map of exotic photo-ops and culture fest! Then comes the day of Carnival on Day 6, of many cultural gatherings of creative and performing arts from across the social, cultural and political fabric of Kerala.
Culminating in exchanges of produce from the farms and gifts, and the Onam Sadhya, a culinary gala featuring over 25 traditional dishes seals the festivities with wishes for a new cycle of a harvest. There is no other way than immersing oneself in the celebrations to truly revel in the exoticism and joyfulness of Onam.
Eighth Bastion and Brunton Boatyard in Fort Kochi is among the most favourite places to enjoy Onam festivities. Don’t miss the Pookamal creations and the age-old customary local games that are played in the properties during this time.
Where can you eat Onam Sadhya? East Indies and surely do a meal at History, Brunton Boatyard – the absolutely delish menu here includes 32 cuisines from all communities who have made Kochi their home.
