THIRUVANTHAPURAM, Sep 5 : Kerala came alive with vibrant colours, traditional rituals, lavish feasts, and cultural programmes today as it celebrated ‘Thiruvonam’, the most significant day of the 10-day Onam festival.
Special Poojas were conducted at major temples across the state, including the Guruvayoor Sree Krishna Temple, the Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, and the Lord Ayyappa Temple at Sabarimala, attracting large numbers of devotees since early morning. In Aranmula, the traditional Thiruvonathoni- a snake boat laden with provisions for the famed Onasadya feast- reached the ghats of the Sri Parthasarathy Temple in the early hours.
Following age-old customs, 18 Nair families offered provisions and vegetables to the boat after a ritual at the Kattoor Mahavishnu Temple yesterday evening. The offerings were then used to prepare the grand vegetarian feast in the temple kitchen, which was served to devotees at the Oottupura (temple dining hall) immediately after the Utchapuja.
Across Kerala, homes, temples, and public spaces were adorned with vibrant Pookalams (floral carpets) at entrances, welcoming the spirit of Mahabali. Families gathered to partake in the traditional Onasadya, a lavish meal featuring more than 20 dishes served on banana leaves, including Kerala classics like Avial, Pachadi, and Ada Pradhaman. The cultural spirit of Onam was showcased through traditional art forms such as Thiruvathirakali, Kummattikali, and Pulikali, performed across towns and villages. In Thrissur, thousands gathered to witness the enthralling tiger-dance performances accompanied by traditional percussion beats.
The festive atmosphere extended to Thiruvananthapuram, where day-long cultural programmes were held at the Nishagandhi Auditorium. Performances included Porattunadakam, Pulluvan Pattu, Ottan Thullal, Karadikali, Mizhaavu Melam, Nangiar Koothu, and musical concerts such as Raagamalika. A contemporary touch was added with a play titled The Real Kerala Story and a special performance by actor Suraj Venjaramoodu. Snake boat races, a highlight of the Onam season, were held across the backwaters, drawing tourists in large numbers. Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan extended greetings to Keralites worldwide, describing Onam as a celebration of unity, harmony, and prosperity that transcends caste, religion, and class.
Onam, regarded as Kerala s cultural identity, unites people from all communities in a shared spirit of joy. It honours the legendary return of Mahabali, the benevolent king of Kerala s folklore. Beyond its religious origins, the festival symbolises equality, harvest prosperity, and social harmony, with the nostalgia of Mahabali s golden reign continuing to inspire generations.(UNI)
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