Beyond the beauty of Pookalam: Here’s what makes Onam a festival of togetherness

Beyond the beauty of Pookalam: Here’s what makes Onam a festival of togetherness

Sep 03, 2025Cycle Care

When we think of Onam, the first picture that comes to mind is the Pookalam. This is a floral rangoli that decorates entrances during the festival. Many of us have seen these beautiful flower patterns in front of traditional Kerala homes, in office spaces, schools and even public buildings. Made using fresh flower petals, the Pookalam is a sight to admire. But Onam is not just a celebration of flowers and decorations. The essence of Onam lies in the spirit of togetherness, which makes the festival truly special and cherished.


The Story of King Mahabali and the Origin of Onam
 

Onam is rooted in a well-known legend. It is believed that in ancient times, King Mahabali ruled his kingdom with fairness, kindness and equality. Under his rule, no one was left in want and life flourished. He was known for his generosity and had conquered the three worlds. His power worried the gods, and they urged Lord Vishnu to help. Vishnu in his Vamana avatar visited earth and asked Mahabali for three paces of land. When the king granted this to him, Vishnu grew gigantic and covered the entire universe in two steps. When there was a place left for Vishnu to keep his third step, King Mahabali offered his head for his third step. Moved by his devotion and honesty, Vishnu granted him the blessings to return once every year to visit his kingdom and his subjects. This visit is what we celebrate as Onam, it is a reminder of Mahabali’s generosity and the love people have for him. ` 

The story is passed down through generations, told by grandparents to children and is also remembered in songs and plays. It reminds people of a time when everyone lived in peace and harmony. In this way Onam connects families to their roots.  


Onam Sadhya: The Grand Feast of Unity
 

Every custom of Onam highlights unity and making the Pookalam is one of them. Children gather flowers, elders guide designs and everyone works together to complete the decorations. It is teamwork that brings joy and people together. Another major part of Onam is the grand feast, Onam Sadhya. Served on a banana leaf, it has many dishes including sambhar, avial, thoran, pickles, payasam, and many more. A Sadhya is always shared, where people sit side by side, eat together and enjoy food.  


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Festival Across Religions and Communities 

Though Onam has its roots in Hindu mythology, it is celebrated by everyone irrespective of their religion in Kerala. Hindus, Christians and Muslims celebrate this festival with joy. Offices, schools, and organisations also arrange Onam celebrations. This makes it more than a religious festival; it becomes a cultural one that belongs to all. Even outside Kerala, Malayalis around the world celebrate Onam. Whether in big cities or abroad, families and communities come together for cultural shows, Sadhya and celebrations. This festival crosses boundaries and spreads the spirit of unity everywhere.  

Onam Cultural Events 

Beyond rituals and feasts, the cultural events during Onam take the celebrations to a whole new level of grandeur and excitement. There are boat races where dozens of rowers must row in perfect rhythm. There are dances like Thiruvathira, where women dance gracefully in circles and events like Pulikali, where performers dress as tigers and entertain crowds. Enjoyed by everyone together, making it a truly special festival.  

When we think of Onam, the Pookalam is often the first image that comes to mind. Yet, the true essence of the festival lies in togetherness — seen in families gathering to arrange flowers, prepare the grand Sadhya, dance, row boats, and celebrate as one. It reminds us that life is better and brighter when we are together. Onam festival is the pride of Kerala that touches the hearts of millions of us across the world. Onam teaches generosity, devotion and humility. It encourages people to share and include everyone in their joy and to remember the importance of fairness. In today's fast paced world, these lessons are more important than ever. 

 

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