Sunday, September 7, 2014

September 7: Onam

Take a trip to Kerala today, and you'll find some beautiful celebrations. It is time to celebrate Onam, which falls during the Malayali month of Chingam, and is celebrated by Hindu practicers from Kerala. The celebration is also special because it marks the homecoming of the legendary King Mahabali, who was one of the most loved and respected rulers of the Kerala region. People celebrate by the wearing of new clothing, the decoration of their houses with flower carpets called "Pookalam" (pictured above), and the consumption of a feast with over twenty homemade curries and sweet payasam on a plantain leaf (called Sadhya). The government of Kerala also throws parades, fireworks, boat races, and encourages citizens to partake in the famous Kathakalli dance. The festivities begin on Onam and continue for 10 days traditionally.

No comments:

Post a Comment