Navi Mumbai: The Malayalee community across the city is gearing up to celebrate Onam, the traditional harvest festival of Kerala, on Sunday, September 15. Onam is more than just a religious event; it is celebrated as a cultural festival that brings together Malayalees worldwide. A key highlight of the celebration is the "Onasadya," a grand feast served on a banana leaf, featuring 13 to 26 or more items, embodying the spirit of abundance and unity.

Malayalees believe that King Mahabali, the mythical ruler of ancient Kerala, visits his subjects on the Thiruvonam nakshatra of the first month of the Malayalam calendar. In honor of this legend, Keralite associations, or "samajams," celebrate Onam with great enthusiasm. Traditional festivities include the drawing of Pookkalam (floral rangoli) to welcome King Mahabali, floral rangoli competitions known as "Pookalamatsaram," folk dances like Kaikottikali and Thiruvathirakali, short plays, children’s events, and the grand Onasadya feast featuring an array of Malayali cuisines.

Onam is celebrated over ten days, beginning with "Atham" (Hasta), during which a small circular floral design is made. This design grows larger each day with the addition of a new circle of different colored flowers, culminating on Thiruvonam. The celebrations also feature various cultural competitions, including Athapookkalam and Vadamvali (tug of war).

K.T. Nair, Vice President of the New Bombay Keraleeya Samajam and Advisor to the All India Malayalee Association, shared that the Samaj will organize a grand celebration to mark Onam, according to the convenience of its members. The Samajam's ladies' wing has already drawn Pookkalams in the evening to welcome King Mahabali. Nair emphasized that the Onam festival symbolizes joy, unity, and cultural richness, with people exchanging wishes and messages.

On Thiruvonam, or Onam day, it is customary for Malayalees to visit temples early in the morning, wear new clothes, and participate in traditional activities. The day includes making floral decorations at home, enjoying an elaborate Onasadya in the afternoon, and visiting friends and relatives in the evening to exchange Onam greetings.