Discover A Grand Cultural Extravaganza At Kerala

Considered the most significant and largest festival in the state

, Onam is the signature event of Kerala complete with all the pomp and pageantry that befits such a culturally rich destination. Taking place in the first month of the Malayalam calendar which falls in the months of August-September, the ten day festival is celebrated with unmatched vigour by all of Kerala in a harvest festival quite unlike any other. The origins of the festival are rooted in the belief that the spirit of King Mahabali descends upon the great state of Kerala during harvest time. Declared the National Festival of Kerala in the early 60"s the vibrant festival incorporates traditional dances, folk songs, snake boat races, intricate flower designs, games and feasting all across the sunny state.

Then first and tenth day of the event are the most revered of the festival although Keralites gear up for all ten days of the cultural carnival with newly bought clothes, gifts for relatives and freshly made feasts complete with regional specialties. The beginning of the festival is marked with a grand parade named Athachamyam which sees a procession of regal proportions attended by folk performers; bejewelled elephants and musicians take to the streets in grand fashion.

Visitors who visit Kerala during Onam should also witness the snake boat races that are held in various parts of the city. The massive vessels named chundan vallams are seen gliding across the water at break neck speeds while nearly a hundred oarsmen rhythmically rows to the sound of drums and song. Traditional games or Onakalikal activities are also a highlight at Onam as regional sports such as Kutukutu, Kayyankali, Talappanthukali and Attakalam are played in small and large scale competitions throughout the state. Athapoovu Competitions which display the Pookalam floral mat creations from fresh flowers also takes place during the festival with innumerable competitors who vie for the top spot. Traditional dance forms such as Kathakali, masked Kummattikali, Thumbi Thullal and clap dances such as Kaikottikali are also performed at Onam and take pride of place among the celebrations.

Pulikali or Kaduvakali folk art items are also popular during this period as performers take the form of tigers and depict hunting scenes. Hindu temples are also decorated with brightly lit lamps for the occasion which is celebrated with equal enthusiasm by Kerala"s Christian and Islamic communities as well.

Those on the lookout for a Kerala beach resort with luxury amenities should look no further than The Leela Kempinski Kovalam Beach, Kerala. Conveniently situated within close proximity of the Trivandrum International Airport this elegant Kovalam resort is the perfect rest for business travellers and holidaymakers.

by: Pushpitha Wijesinghe

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