Kerala is ready for its grandest festival
Onam in a unique traditional manner! A glorified harvest festival, Onam symbolizes the homecoming of Mahabali, one of the greatest kings of Kerala. Every Keralite waits for the festive all through the year. It is the time when the entire state is soaked in happiness and excitement. Celebrating the homecoming of the spirit of King Mahabali, Onam is marked with numerous festivities like Vallam Kali (boat races), Pulikali (tiger dances), Pookkalam (flower arrangement), Onathappan (worship) and other celebrations. It is the New Year day for Malayali Hindus. These below given images of the grand celebrations reveal the color and splendor of Onam in the God's Own Country.
Thripunithura Athachamayam
Athachamayam marks the beginning of
Onam festival in Kerala. A spectacular
event, it is a occasion to witness the folk art forms of Kerala. The
celebration takes place in the historical town of Thripunithura, near
Ernakulam in Kochi. The procession celebrated in commemoration of the
King of Kochi still retains its majestic charm and is conducted in a
spectacular manner.
Thrikkakara Vamanamoorthy Temple
Dedicated
to Lord Vamana, this temple is considered to be the centre of Onam
celebrations over the world. The temple in Thrikkakara near to
Edappally in Kochi city turns out to be more lively during this
festival.
Celebratory Onam Week
During the week long festival you can witness the secular spirit of Kerala. Steet parade accompanied by decorated elephants, musicians, large crowds are added attractions.
Pookkalam
Pookkalam is one of the important highlights of the
Onam festival. It is about decorating the house yards with beautiful patterns of flower. You can find beautiful onam pookalam designs for 10 days in every house.
Onasadya Feast
Onasadya is a grand, elaborate feast and is one of the hallmarks of celebrations. During this traditional feast people invite their relatives and friends to enjoy the food. Pure vegetarian food ranging from the spicy 'avial' to the sweet 'pal payasam' is cooked using natural ingredients. Served on banana leaves it consists of numerous types of vegetarian dishes.
Pulikkali Tiger Play
Pulikkali Tiger Play further highlights the festive fervor of
Onam festival. Men dressed up as tigers dance to the beats of instruments like Chenda and thakil.
Vallam Kali, the traditional boat race
Vallam Kali, the a traditional boat race organised on the day of
Onam attracts huge crowds. The boat race is organised in the Pampa river which flows along the sacred hills of 'Sabrimala'.
Visit Kerala this Onam to sense the joy and festivity of the celebration marked by several rituals, socializing, dance, games, fair and a lavish feast.
To know more about Onam click here