This Onam, Kerala Tourism has pulled off a campaign that is equal parts clever and captivating. In a delightful twist, they have reimagined Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa as a Malayali queen, draped in a traditional kasavu saree, adorned with jasmine flowers, and ready to join a pookalam contest. The AI-generated image is part of the board's "State of Harmony" campaign, celebrating Onam's spirit of unity and cultural pride.
"Timeless. Graceful. Iconic. The Kerala kasavu saree," reads the caption on Kerala Tourism's Instagram post, inviting travellers to experience Onam in all its colourful glory.
Also Read: Kerala's Parassini Madappura Temple: Where Dogs Are Worshipped And Theyyam Is Performed Daily
Check out the post here:
What Is Onam? A Festival Of Homecoming, Harmony, And Heritage
Onam is Kerala's biggest and most beloved festival, celebrated over ten days with vibrant rituals, feasts, and cultural performances. In 2025, Onam begins on August 30 and culminates on Thiruvonam, September 8.
At its heart lies the legend of King Mahabali, a mythical ruler whose reign was marked by peace, prosperity, and equality. It is believed that Mahabali returns to visit his people once a year, and Onam is the joyous welcome they prepare for him, signifying a celebration of abundance, gratitude, and togetherness.
Also Read: 10 Reasons Why Wayanad Is Kerala's Most Peaceful Digital Detox Spot
Photo Credit: UnSplash
Rituals That Add Life To Onam Celebration:
Over ten days, the state transforms into a canvas of colour, rhythm, and tradition. Here's how the rituals unfold, each one adding a layer to the story of Mahabali's homecoming.
1. Pookalam: The Floral Welcome
Every morning during Onam, families gather to create pookalam, which is an intricate floral carpet laid at the entrance of homes. What begins as a modest ring of petals on Day 1 grows into elaborate, multi-layered designs by Thiruvonam. Children often compete in neighbourhood contests, and the air is filled with the scent of marigold, jasmine, and hibiscus.
2. Onasadya: A Feast Of Flavours
The Onasadya is the crown jewel of Onam - a grand vegetarian feast served on banana leaves, often with over 20 dishes. From tangy sambar and creamy avial to crispy banana chips and sweet payasam, each bite tells a story of Kerala's culinary heritage. Families sit cross-legged, eating with their hands, as tradition dictates.
3. Vallam Kali: The Pulse Of The Backwaters
In Alappuzha and surrounding regions, the backwaters come alive with Vallam Kali, the iconic snake boat races. Long, narrow boats, some over 100 feet, are rowed by teams of up to 100 men, their oars slicing through water in perfect rhythm to traditional vanchipattu (boat songs). The energy is electric, and the crowd roars with every surge forward.
4. Cultural Performances: Art In Motion
From the hypnotic movements of Kathakali to the graceful circular steps of Thiruvathira, Onam is a showcase of Kerala's performing arts. Pulikali (tiger dance) adds a playful twist, with men painted as tigers dancing through the streets to drumbeats. Folk songs, temple plays, and classical music concerts fill the evenings.
5. Games and Community Fun
Onam is also a time for traditional games - from tug-of-war and uriadi (pot breaking) to indoor board games and ball matches. Villages host friendly competitions, and everyone, from children to elders, joins in. It is a celebration of togetherness, laughter, and shared joy.
6. The Kasavu Saree: Elegance Woven In Gold
The kasavu saree is a symbol of Kerala's cultural identity. Worn during festivals and weddings, its cream base and gold border evoke purity, prosperity, and timeless grace. During Onam, women across Kerala don kasavu sarees to honour tradition and celebrate in style.
The saree's origins trace back to ancient weaving traditions in Balaramapuram, where artisans still use handlooms to craft these elegant drapes. The gold border, once woven with real zari, now comes in varied styles, making it both timeless and contemporary.
Also Read: Kerala's Aranmula Vallasadya: A Sacred Feast Worth Travelling For
Photo Credit: Kappa Chakra
Planning Your Onam Trip To Kerala In 2025?
Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, Onam offers a sensory-rich experience that blends heritage, hospitality, and high spirits.
Where To Go?
- Thrissur: Known for its grand Onasadya and cultural events.
- Alappuzha: Best for Vallam Kali (snake boat races).
- Kochi: Offers a mix of tradition and modern festivities.
- Palakkad and Kannur: Great for folk performances and temple rituals.
Key Dates For Onam 2025:
- Onam Begins: August 30
- Thiruvonam (Main Day): September 8
- Boat Race Season: Late August to early September
Travel Tips:
- Book early as Onam is peak season for domestic and international tourists.
- Try local homestays for immersive experiences.
- Respect dress codes at temples and cultural venues.
- Carry light cottons and umbrellas as monsoon showers are frequent.
- Join community events as many villages welcome visitors to participate in games and feasts.
A 5-Day Onam Travel Itinerary:
Planning a trip to Kerala during Onam? Here's a curated itinerary that blends tradition, adventure, and immersive local experiences:
Day 1: Begin With Thrissur
Kick off your journey with a pookalam workshop led by local artists. Learn the art of floral design and its symbolic meanings, then explore the city's vibrant temple culture.
Day 2: Snake Boat Race In Alappuzha
Head to the backwaters for the Vallam Kali snake boat races. Book a seat along Punnamada Lake or hop on a houseboat for a floating view of the action.
Day 3: Traditional Meal In Kumarakom or Wayanad
Stay at a heritage homestay and enjoy a traditional Onasadya prepared by your hosts. Participate in local games and evening folk music sessions.
Day 4: Kathakali In Kochi
Catch a Kathakali performance at a cultural centre. Spend the day exploring Fort Kochi's colonial architecture, spice markets, and art cafes.
Day 5: End With Palakkad
Wrap up with a temple visit to Kalpathy or Jainmedu, followed by shopping for kasavu sarees and banana chips at local markets.
Also Read: Nisarga Art Hub: Kerala's Hidden Gem Where Music And Architecture Blend On Its Roof
Photo Credit: Pexels
Onam Beyond Kerala: How Other States Celebrate
While Kerala is the heartland of Onam, the festival resonates far beyond its borders. Malayali communities across India - from metros to small towns - celebrate with equal fervour, turning neighbourhoods into pockets of Kerala.
1. Bengaluru:
In areas like Koramangala and Whitefield, Onam is marked by community feasts, cultural shows, and pookalam contests. Local temples host Thiruvonam pujas, and apartment complexes organise Onasadya buffets.
2. Mumbai:
Malayali associations in suburbs like Mulund and Andheri hold Pulikali performances, Kathakali shows, and Onam fairs featuring handicrafts and traditional snacks.
3. Delhi:
From Chittaranjan Park to Mayur Vihar, Onam is celebrated with temple events, music concerts, and interactive workshops on Kerala cuisine and dance. The Kerala House often hosts public Onasadya meals.
In Conclusion:
Whether you are watching Vallam Kali from a houseboat, savouring payasam at a homestay, or spotting Mona Lisa in a kasavu saree on your feed, Onam invites you to step into a world where tradition, joy, and storytelling bloom in full colour.
