Happy Onam 2024: Onam, one of the most revered Hindu festivals, is celebrated not just in India but by people around the world, including in the United States. In 2024, Onam began on August 26 and will culminate on September 15, marking a time of cultural pride and communal togetherness.
The festival honors the return of the legendary King Mahabali and symbolizes the start of the new year for the people of Kerala, India. While rooted in Hindu traditions, Onam transcends religious boundaries, as it is celebrated by people of all faiths in Kerala. The festival is a joyous expression of the state’s culture, food, and traditions.
A highlight of Onam is the wearing of traditional kasavu sarees, gathering with family and friends, and indulging in the grand feast known as the sadya, which features more than 26 vegetarian dishes. The vibrant floral arrangements, known as pookalam, add to the beauty of the celebrations.
“Ashamsakal” a Malayalam term meaning best wishes or congratulations, is commonly exchanged during this festive season. Whether you are celebrating in Kerala or abroad, sending warm greetings, messages, and images to loved ones has become an integral part of the Onam spirit.
As the harvest season begins and the monsoon ends, Onam offers a time for reflection, joy, and community bonding. May this Onam be as bright as the pookalam and as fulfilling as the traditional feast, bringing happiness, health, and prosperity to all.
Happy Onam 2024!
Shyamala Soundari Kuppusamy, currently residing in the USA, shared her heartfelt emotions on Onam in social media and also a message around breaking gender stereotypes.
She writes on fb, “Onam Ashamsakal! 🎉 Last year, we celebrated this beautiful festival with family in Kerala, soaking in the magic of Kollam. This year, we brought a touch of that magic to Charlotte! Special thanks to my amazing Mom-in-law for preparing a delicious Onam Sathya. My contribution is a daring twist to a traditional dish Ada(pasta)pradhaman😜. Swipe till the end to see how men in the house took the lead in creating beautiful pookalam aka Rangoli both years!” #BreakGenderStereotypes #Onamcelebration # Familytraditions.
