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...

India, a land of vibrant diversity, is a tapestry of cultures, languages, and traditions. This diversity is perhaps most vividly on display during Navaratri, a Hindu festival celebrated for nine nights and ten days each year. While the core essence of Navaratri remains consistent – the worship of the divine feminine goddess Durga – the ways in which it is celebrated vary greatly across different regions of India. At the heart of Navaratri lies the ancient legend of the battle between goddess Durga and the demon king Mahishasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. This festival serves as a spiritual reminder of the eternal struggle between light and darkness. The nine days of Navaratri are dedicated to the worship of each of the nine distinct avatars of the goddess. The Seasonal Significance Navaratri is not a one-size-fits-all festival. According to the Hindu calendar, there are four seasonal Navaratri celebrations. However, it's the post-monsoon autumn Navaratr...