The vibrant festival of Onam is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Kerala. It is also known as Thir-Onam or Thiruvonam. This 10-day festival marks the celebration of the annual harvest in Kerala. It has already begun on September 5. It will conclude with Thiruvonam Nakshatra on September 15. During the festival people decorate their homes with flowers and a swing at the home is a must to enjoy Onam. Usually, it is tied in the backyard. Now, ready-made hammocks are available in the market that can make your life easier. Jomon, a native of Alappuzha sells ready-made swings which can be attached in a park.
In rural areas, Onam has started from Atham. Along with placing the flowers, the swing will also be tied in the backyard for the kids. One sits on the swing while another pushes it from behind. Some swing by themselves. It is the favourite pastime for the adults and the kids. In today’s busy life, ready-made hammocks are available in the market for those who do not have time to build swings. These are available in the market for Rs 350 to Rs 1400. These swings are available in various sizes and qualities, with a wooden seat attached to a plastic rope. Jomon’s shop offers about 20 types of swings at Kottankulangara, Alappuzha. The swing tied to the tree in the backyard and the friends patiently waiting to sit on it is a throwback to childhood.
During the festival, people decorate their homes with pookalam (exquisite floral carpets), and traditional art forms, and prepare Onam Sadhya. Feas are also served in homes with payasam desert. Onam sadya consists of over 26 dishes that are enjoyed on banana leaves.
People also follow the tradition of wearing new clothes and exchanging jewellery and traditional attire. While men prefer Mundu, boys go for Pattu Pavada, and women wear Kasavu sarees. Apart from swinging, the Onam festivities also include several cultural activities, such as traditional games, boat races and cultural performances.
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