G Writes

  Onam has always been more than just a festival. For me, it has always been about being at home—with family, friends, and loved ones. The flowers, the laughter, the new clothes, and of course, the grand sadya—it was never about just traditions, but about the feeling of togetherness. When I think back to my childhood, my first memories of Onam take me to Mavelikara, my mother’s home. I can still recall the open spaces filled with countless flowers, the playful chaos of cousins running around, and the joy of slipping into brand-new dresses. Those days had a vibe of their own. Later, in Kottayam, Onam turned into a more intimate affair, but the spirit remained just as strong. After the festival, all of us cousins would gather at my great-grandmother’s house—a yearly reunion that we cherished deeply. My great-grandmother was the pillar that held our family together. She was a woman of wisdom and warmth, with a childlike charm that drew us to her. I remember her slipping small amou...

  Once upon a time in the lively city of Thiruvananthapuram, a family found themselves embroiled in the chaotic whirlwind of planning their daughter's wedding. Mrs. Shobha, the mother of the bride, was a self-proclaimed connoisseur of gold and expensive sarees. She always had a way of making everything about her love for luxury. One day, she dramatically exclaimed, "Oh, my dear husband, this wedding needs to be bigger and shinier than the sun itself! Let's make sure people need sunglasses to attend!" Uncle Ramesh, known for his knack for persuading others to spend more, chimed in, "Absolutely, brother! This is an occasion of a lifetime. Let's make sure the bride arrives in a chariot made of pure gold, pulled by unicorns. Nothing less will do!" His exaggerated suggestions always left everyone in splits, but somehow, they also seemed to inspire Mr. Achuthan As the family sat around a table, brainstorming wedding ideas, Uncle Ramesh enthusiastically propose...