For Malayalis in Goa, Onam is not just a day to remember their homeland. It is an opportunity to pass their heritage to the next generation, blend it into Goa’s multicultural fabric, and create new bonds of friendship and unity
SUDHA JITHENDRAN
Onam is one of Kerala’s largest cultural festivals, celebrated collectively by Malayalis around the globe. It’s essence lies in the vision: “When Maveli ruled the land, all humans were equal.” This timeless principle mirrors Sree Narayana Guru’s iconic vision, “One Caste, One Religion, One God for Man.” Beyond differences of caste, religion, wealth or status, the legend of Mahabali and Onam reminds us of an era when people lived as one. Thus, Onam stands today as a beacon of equality, love, sharing and humanity.
Where bonds were formed
For Malayalis living in Goa, Onam evokes a deeply nostalgic experience. Decades ago, those who migrated to Goa in search of livelihoods brought along their traditions and carefully preserved the spirit of Onam.
At one time, local gatherings of just 100-200 people defined the face of Onam celebrations in Goa. Hosted at homes or small halls, these events featured key attractions such as the grand feast (Onasadhya), floral carpets (Pookkalam), traditional dances (Thiruvathira), music and friendly get-togethers.
The festivity offered a vital occasion to meet, share stories, and relive old memories. However, as the associations and social groups became increasingly active, Onam celebrations moved beyond the boundaries of private homes and modest halls to large public arenas.
New-scale celebrations
Now, festivities kick off with the grand celebration organised by the All Goa Malayali Associations, launching a three-month period during which various Malayali organisations across Goa host their own events. Events now draw more than 2,000 attendees. This growth reflects not just an increase in scale, but also the strength, organisational capability, and cultural impact of the Malayali community in Goa.
Goan Onam celebrations take place on impressive stages equipped with large LED screens and elaborate setups in spacious auditoriums, accompanied by diverse cultural performances.
In the past, floral carpets (Pookkalam) were crafted using simple wildflowers gathered from home gardens and surrounding neighbourhoods. Today, flowers are sourced in bulk from major commercial markets to create grand, intricate floral carpets for large-scale competitions.
From Pookkalam competitions to Thiruvathira, dance showcases, musical events and variety programmes, the activities add immense flavour to the festivities. Families gather, friends reunite and organisers begin preparations months in advance. A friendly competitiveness drives each year’s event to surpass the last, infusing the celebrations with fresh energy.
The Onasadhya holds special pride of place. Culinary experts are often brought in from Kerala to prepare the elaborate feast. The Sadhya once served in dining rooms is now served to thousands in massive auditoriums.
The youth factor
One of the most notable shifts in modern Onam celebrations is also the active participation of the younger generation. Alongside traditional art forms, performances tailored to modern tastes take centre stage. Through social media and digital platforms, these celebrations reach an even
wider audience.
Beyond Malayalis
Another striking aspect of Goa’s Onam is that it is no longer confined solely to the Malayali community. Native Goans and people from other communities regularly join in the festivities. Thus, Onam in Goa has transcended the boundaries of a regional festival to become a platform connecting diverse cultures. But right through, the soul of Onam has remained unchanged. Unity, love, equality, sharing, friendship and nostalgia continue to form its core.
(The writer is a former president, Goa Pravasi Malayali Literary Forum)
