Celebrated with much fan fare and many cultural elements
such as Vallam Kali, Pulikkali, Pookkalam, Onathappan, Thumbi Thullal,
Onavillu, Kazhchakkula, Onathappan, Atthachamayam etc. the Onam festivity kicks
off on Atham day, 10 days before Thiruvonam. Each day has its own symbolism and
essence with respective to traditions and rituals. Decorated ‘Onapookkalam’ - earthen
mounds are installed in the courtyards of the houses. And the first day of
celebrations starts with Atham.
The festivities are marked with a range of novel activities,
music, worshipping fascinating decorations, preparation of traditional feast as
well as wearing of new clothes. While the Onam festival mesmerizes tourists
with its vividness and animated celebration in God's Own country, Kerala where
tourists from all corners of the world throng to celebrate and experience the
joyous festival, Kristu Jayanti College, Bangalore celebrated Onam in its
college premises yesterday.
Not only the students decorated fascinating Pookalams, a
fancy and colourful floral pattern laid on the floor as a part of the ritual,
but also took part in ethnic dress competitions to keep the spirit alive. Clad
in traditional dress many of the students provided a rare insight into the rich
culture of the South. As part of the celebrations, female students mostly in
traditional Malyali Golden border saree involved in a mesmerizing dance which were
hailed by the management and students alike. The students on their own also took
time to send out Onam wishes and spread the essence of the festival to dear
ones.
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