Celebrating Onam: Traditions, Customs, and Recipes

 

Introduction

Onam, the vibrant and colourful festival of Kerala, India, is a celebration that transcends religious and cultural boundaries. This grand and elaborate festival holds a special place in the hearts of Malayalee, the people of Kerala. It is a time for merriment, unity, feasting, and paying homage to the legendary King Mahabali. In this blog, we will delve into the origin, significance, and various aspects of Onam, from its celebration to the delectable dishes that grace the festive table.

Origin of Onam

Onam's roots can be traced back to ancient times, with legends and historical events intertwining to create this magnificent celebration. The festival is closely associated with the mythological King Mahabali, a benevolent ruler who once governed Kerala. It is believed that during his reign, the state enjoyed unparalleled prosperity and happiness.

One of the most popular legends related to Onam is the story of King Mahabali and Lord Vishnu. According to Hindu mythology, King Mahabali was a devout and generous ruler who earned the favour of Lord Vishnu. However, his growing power and benevolence began to concern the gods, particularly Indra, the king of the gods. In response to this, Lord Vishnu took the form of a dwarf Brahmin called Vamana and approached Mahabali for a boon.

King Mahabali, true to his word, granted Vamana's request, not knowing that he was Lord Vishnu in disguise. Vamana asked for three paces of land, which he measured in three giant strides. In his final step, he pushed Mahabali into the netherworld but, recognizing the king's virtuous nature, granted him a boon to visit his kingdom once a year. This annual visit is celebrated as Onam.

Significance of Onam

Onam carries profound cultural and social significance for the people of Kerala. It serves as a symbol of unity, harvest, and prosperity. The festival is not limited to any particular religious or caste group, making it a testament to Kerala's communal harmony. Here are some of the key aspects that make Onam so significant:

Harvest Festival: Onam marks the end of the monsoon season and the beginning of the harvest season in Kerala. It is a time when farmers reap the rewards of their hard work and offer gratitude to nature for its bounty.

Cultural Unity: Onam transcends religious and cultural boundaries. People of all backgrounds come together to celebrate, reinforcing the unity and diversity of Kerala.

Homage to King Mahabali: The festival pays tribute to the benevolent King Mahabali, whose rule is remembered as a golden era in the state's history.

Feasting and Merriment: Onam is a time for feasting and merriment. The grand feast, known as the Onam Sadya, is a highlight of the celebration.

How and Where is Onam Celebrated?

Onam is celebrated with great enthusiasm and zeal throughout Kerala. The festival typically spans ten days, with each day having its significance and customs. Let's explore the various aspects of the Onam celebration:

1. Atham: Onam begins on the day of Atham and is marked by the ritualistic arrangement of clay figures called 'Pookalam' in front of homes. These intricate floral designs are created using various colourful flowers and petals.

2. Chithira: On the second day, Chithira, people intensify their Pookalam designs and start cleaning and decorating their homes. A sense of excitement and anticipation fills the air.

3. Chodhi: The next day, Chodhi, sees an even more elaborate Pookalam design, and the atmosphere becomes more festive. The streets and homes are adorned with lamps and decorations.

4. Vishakam: The fourth day is Vishakam, and it's marked by the grand beginning of public celebrations. The traditional dance form, Thiruvathirakali, is performed by women in traditional attire, adding a cultural touch to the festivities.

5. Anizham: Anizham is the fifth day, and it is when shopping for new clothes and gifts reaches its peak. Markets are bustling with shoppers looking for the perfect Onam attire.

6. Thriketa: On the sixth day, Thriketa, people start preparing for the Onam Sadya, the grand feast. Women begin to make the various dishes that will be served.

7. Moolam: Moolam is the seventh day, and it is considered an auspicious time to start preparing the traditional Onam feast. The final touches are given to Pookalam designs.

8. Pooradam: On the eighth day, Pooradam, traditional art forms and music performances take centre stage. Competitions and processions are also organized to celebrate the spirit of Onam.

9. Uthradam: The ninth day, Uthradam, is marked by elaborate preparations for the Onam Sadya. Families start cooking a multitude of dishes to be shared with loved ones.

10. Thiruvonam: The grand finale is Thiruvonam, the tenth day. The day begins with a special prayer and ritual offerings. The Onam Sadya is the highlight of the day, with a sumptuous feast of traditional dishes served on banana leaves. People also engage in various traditional games and cultural activities.

Onam is not limited to Kerala alone. Malayalee communities around the world celebrate this festival with equal fervour. Non-resident Keralites have to reconnect with their roots and preserve their cultural heritage.

Onam Sadya: The Feast of Plenty

One of the most anticipated aspects of Onam is the grand feast known as the Onam Sadya. This lavish spread consists of a variety of vegetarian dishes, each prepared with love and precision. Let's explore some of the most popular dishes that grace the Onam Sadya, along with their ingredients, detailed preparation, cooking time, and nutritional facts:

1. Avial

Ingredients:

• Assorted vegetables (like pumpkin, carrots, beans, drumsticks, and more)
• Grated coconut
• Cumin seeds
• Green chillies
• Curd
• Coconut oil
• Curry leaves

Preparation:

Cut the vegetables into small pieces.

Boil the vegetables until they are tender.

Grind grated coconut, cumin seeds, and green chillies into a fine paste.

Mix the ground paste with curd and add it to the boiled vegetables.

Season with coconut oil and curry leaves.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Facts: Avial is a nutritious dish, packed with vitamins and minerals from a variety of vegetables. The addition of coconut and curd provides healthy fats and probiotics.

2. Parippu (Dal Curry)

Ingredients:

• Toor dal (split pigeon peas)
• Turmeric powder
• Red chilli powder
• Coconut oil
• Mustard seeds
• Cumin seeds
• Curry leaves

Preparation:

Cook toor dal with turmeric and red chilli powder until it's soft and mushy.

Heat coconut oil in a pan, add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and curry leaves.

Pour this seasoning into the cooked dal.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Nutritional Facts: Parippu is a good source of protein and fibre from toor dal. The spices add flavour and health benefits.

3. Sambar

Ingredients:

• Toor dal
• Tamarind paste
• Mixed Vegetables
• Sambar powder
• Mustard seeds
• Fenugreek seeds
• Red chilli
• Asafoetida
• Curry leaves

Preparation:

Cook toor dal and add mixed vegetables, tamarind paste, and sambar powder.

In a separate pan, temper mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, red chilli, asafoetida, and curry leaves.

Add the tempering to the cooked dal and vegetables.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Facts: Sambar is a nutritious dish packed with the goodness of vegetables and toor dal. It is rich in vitamins and minerals.

4. Olan

Ingredients:

• White pumpkin
• Red gram (cowpea)
• Coconut milk
• Green chillies
• Curry leaves

Preparation:

Cook white pumpkin and cowpea in coconut milk with green chillies.

Season with curry leaves.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Nutritional Facts: Olan is a low-calorie dish rich in fibre and vitamins from vegetables and coconut milk.

5. Pulissery

Ingredients:

• Ripe mangoes
• Yoghurt
• Coconut
• Green chillies
• Mustard seeds
• Fenugreek seeds
• Curry leaves

Preparation:

Cook ripe mangoes with coconut, green chillies, and yoghurt.

Season with mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, and curry leaves.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Nutritional Facts: Pulissery provides a good dose of vitamin C from the mangoes and probiotics from yoghurt.

6. Thoran

Ingredients:

• Any green leafy vegetable (like spinach or cabbage)
• Grated coconut
• Mustard seeds
• Urad dal
• Red chillies
• Curry leaves

Preparation:

Cook the chopped greens with grated coconut.

Season with mustard seeds, urad dal, red chillies, and curry leaves.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Nutritional Facts: Thoran is a healthy side dish, rich in vitamins and fibre from the greens and coconut.

7. Pachadi

Ingredients:

• Cucumber
• Curd
• Mustard seeds
• Grated coconut
• Green chillies
• Curry leaves

Preparation:

Cook cucumbers in a mixture of curd, grated coconut, and green chillies.

Season with mustard seeds and curry leaves.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Nutritional Facts: Pachadi is cooling and provides vitamins and probiotics from curd.

8. Rasam

Ingredients:

• Tamarind
• Tomatoes
• Garlic
• Mustard seeds
• Cumin seeds
• Red chillies
• Curry leaves

Preparation:

Prepare a tamarind extract and add tomatoes, garlic, and spices.

Season with mustard seeds, cumin seeds, red chillies, and curry leaves.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Nutritional Facts: Rasam is a tangy and spicy soup-like dish, known for its digestive and immune-boosting properties.

9. Rice and Parboiled Rice

Ingredients:

Rice

Parboiled rice

Preparation:

Cook rice and parboiled rice separately until they are fluffy.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Nutritional Facts: Rice is the staple food in Kerala, providing carbohydrates for energy.

10. Ada Pradhaman (Dessert)

Ingredients:

• Ada (rice flakes)
• Jaggery
• Coconut milk
• Cashews
• Raisins
• Cardamom

Preparation:

Cook Ada and jaggery in coconut milk.

Garnish with cashews, raisins, and cardamom.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Facts: Ada Pradhaman is a sweet and rich dessert, offering energy from rice and the goodness of jaggery and coconut milk.

Conclusion

Onam is a festival that encapsulates the essence of Kerala's culture and traditions. It signifies the harvest season, pays homage to a virtuous king, and fosters unity among diverse communities. The Onam Sadya, a grand vegetarian feast, is the highlight of the celebration, offering a rich tapestry of flavours and nutrition.

As you celebrate Onam, remember the legend of King Mahabali and the values he represented. Relish the delectable dishes of the Onam Sadya, and revel in the vibrant festivities that bring communities together. Onam is not just a festival; it is a reflection of the rich heritage and unity of the people of Kerala. So, immerse yourself in the spirit of Onam, and let this colourful festival brighten your life with joy, unity, and delicious food.

Happy Onam