Onam: A Celebration of Unity, Culture and Tradition

Reported by Sakshi Pandhare
Pune, 5th September 2025: In a conversation with Babu Nair, Ex-Corporator of Pimpri Chinchwad and currently with the Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee, he shared insights into the cultural and social significance of Onam, Kerala’s most cherished festival.

According to Nair, Onam has its roots in mythology and tradition and is basically a harvest festival. The return of Mahabali, the benevolent demon king who formerly ruled Kerala, is celebrated. Legend has it that Lord Vishnu, in his Vamana form, banished Mahabali to the netherworld but allowed him to return to his people once a year.

“Onam celebrates the cherished king’s yearly return, embodying the principles of equality, harmony, and prosperity. “

Usually starting around August 17, the festival lasts for a few days. Nair claimed that the fact that Onam is observed as a holiday in all communities and religions and is therefore a symbol of peace is what really makes it unique.

The Onam Sadhya, a lavish vegetarian feast customarily served on a banana leaf, is a major highlight of the celebration. Among the approximately 40 to 50 dishes that make up the meal are papadum, kalan, avial, alasscri, and sambar. Every dish combines tradition and flavor, each with its own significance.

Another well-known feature of Onam is its colorful Pookalam, a complex floral rangoli that is placed at the entrance to residences and public areas. The Pookalam, a symbol of welcome and prosperity, is made from fresh flowers of all hues and frequently serves as the focal point of festivities. Women gather around the Pookalam to perform Kaikottikali, also called Thiruvathira, once it has been prepared. This traditional dance style represents joy, unity, and devotion through rhythmic hand clapping, circular motions, and elegant steps performed in unison. Cultural clothing enhances the festival’s grandeur. Men wear the Mundu, and women wear the exquisite Kasavu Saree. Both sexes accessorize with gold jewelry. In addition to celebrating mythology and the harvest,

Onam also exemplifies the spirit of unity in diversity through its rituals, feasts, flower decorations, and dance. Regardless of background or religion, everyone gathers for this festival to honor Kerala’s rich cultural legacy, as Nair emphasized.