Welcome to the first edition of a series where I take you on a trip to explore some
of the not-so-well-known holidays around the world!
Our first stop is Kerala, a state in South India, where the festival of Onam is celebrated. This 10-day celebration usually takes place between August and September, and marks the start of the harvest season! Let's explore this intriguing holiday's specific history and customs!
History
According to Hindu Mythology, the demon king of Kerala, Mahabali, was a very popular and charitable king. He was loved by everyone, and it made the Vedas jealous. To overthrow him, they sent the Lord Vishnu to drag the king down to the underworld. To do this, Vishnu tried to trick Mahabali, by asking for a plot of land that his foot could step across 3 times. The king agreed, thinking it was an easy request. However, Vishnu then grew as big as the universe, and there wasn't enough space in the cosmos to fit the third foot. The demon king then offered his head as the third step, fulfilling Vishnu's request.
Vishnu, pleased with Mahabali's allegiance towards him, rewarded him by granting a request of his choice.
Onam was then marked as a holiday where Keralites now wait for their king and reminisce on Mahabali's sacrifice. However, this story is only one of many folk tales associated with the origins of the Onam celebration. Although the beginnings of this holiday are from Hindu roots, Onam is celebrated by many different Keralites around the world.
Customs
Clothing
There are many different pieces you may wear for Onam, but traditionally men and boys wear a Mundu, women wear a Kasavu Sari, and young girls wear a Pattu Pavadai. The main color theme is white with gold accents.
Food
The Onam feast is called the Onam Sadhya. It is traditionally served on a banana leaf with brown rice and a multitude of curries and toppings. The dessert is Payasam, a type of South Asian rice pudding.
Celebrations & Festivities
There are many different celebrations for Onam, which sometimes depend on the area. However, these are some of the most common.
Pookalum
Typically a floral decoration is placed on the front of buildings and homes as a welcome mat for the king. The size and colors of the decoration increase as the days move forward, and the Pookalum usually starts with only yellow flowers.
Vallamkali
This is a boat race held on the sacred Pampa River. It is a competition between teams, rowing 'snake boats', or paddled longboats.
Dance Performances
My favorite part of Onam, excluding the food, has to be the performances. It is a talent show where groups perform classical Indian dances, skits, and music.
Conclusion
Onam isn't only celebrated in Kerala, but by Keralites all over the world! Even in Charlotte, the Charlotte Malayalee Association holds an Onam celebration every year.
Hopefully, you are now interested to learn more about Indian culture. If you are, I recommend that you read more about India! I'll meet back with you at the next installment of 'Holidays Around the World'!