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...

Athachamayam, a grand cultural fiesta, marks the commencement of Kerala state festival, Onam. Held in the historic town of Thripunithura, this colorful event unfolds with a magnificent procession showcasing Kerala’s diverse folk art forms. This annual celebration serves as a curtain-raiser to the ten-day Onam festival, capturing the essence of tradition, royalty, and communal harmony. Thripunithura , once the capital of the Kochi kingdom,  a center of art, culture, and administration   transforms into a cultural hub during Athachamayam . The streets come alive with a long procession of thematic floats, musical ensembles, and folk art performances such as Theyyam, Pulikkali, Kathakali and what not. The grandeur of the procession reflects Kerala's cultural diversity and unity, showcasing not just the region’s artistic richness but also the spirit of inclusivity that binds its people together. The History Behind Athachamayam The  origins of Athachamayam date bac k to the era...