Onam 2024 activities: Boat race, tiger dance, and more
What's the story
Onam, a cherished festival in Kerala commemorates the return of King Mahabali with rich traditions and a strong communal spirit.
Renowned for its activities that bring families together, Onam features significant practices and traditions that honor the festival's essence and highlight Kerala's diverse heritage.
Let's explore the key activities of Onam discovering the meaning behind each celebration that makes this festival truly spectacular.
Floral design
Pookalam
Pookalam involves creating intricate floral designs on the ground using a variety of colorful flowers.
These designs are made in concentric circles and often feature elaborate patterns related to Onam.
The pookalam symbolizes prosperity and warmly welcomes King Mahabali, representing the beauty and richness of Kerala.
This activity is an artistic expression and a celebration of cultural heritage.
Grand feast
Onasadya
Onasadya is a grand feast consisting of a variety of vegetarian dishes served on a banana leaf.
The meal typically includes rice, sambar, avial, thoran, olan, and payasam, among others.
This feast reflects abundance and hospitality, signifying the spirit of togetherness and unity.
It honors the bountiful harvest and rich culinary traditions of Kerala, with the banana leaf enhancing the traditional experience.
Boat race
Vallamkali
Vallamkali, or boat race, is a spectacular event where teams of rowers compete in long, narrow boats decorated with vibrant colors.
Held on the backwaters of Kerala, this race attracts thousands of spectators.
Vallamkali symbolizes teamwork, strength, and community spirit, celebrating the tradition of boat races as part of harvest festivals and reflecting communal joy and competitive spirit.
Dance
Kaikottikali
Kaikottikali is a traditional dance performed by women, involving rhythmic clapping of hands and graceful movements to traditional music and songs.
This dance showcases the grace and elegance of Kerala's traditional art forms, celebrating Onam, honoring King Mahabali, and fostering unity among participants.
It is also a way to preserve and pass on cultural traditions to future generations.
Offering gold
Onam ponnada
Onam ponnada involves presenting ceremonial gold or gold-like ornaments, to deities and elders, accompanied by traditional rituals and prayers.
This offering symbolizes prosperity, wealth, and gratitude, honoring the divine and seeking blessings for success and well-being.
The ritual underscores the importance of faith, tradition, and respect for elders during Onam.
Tiger Dance
Pullikali
Pulikali, or tiger dance, is a traditional folk art where dancers paint themselves in bright yellow, black, and red stripes to resemble tigers and perform energetic dances in the streets.
Accompanied by traditional music, this dance celebrates Onam with exuberance and joy, symbolizing the victory of good over evil and reflecting the festive spirit of King Mahabali's visit.