Onam Sadya

Onam is a harvest festival and is celebrated with great pompous in Kerala. Infact Onam is a declared state holiday. Onam falls in the Malayalam month of Chingam. This is usually between August and Septemebr. This year Onam falls on 28th August 2015. Since this is the first time that Onam coincides with Shree Varalakshmi Puja it was really hectic at home but doubly enjoyable!

Onam marks the commemoration of Vamana Avatar of Lord Vishnu. Also it is believed that it is on this day that the Asura | Demon King Mahabali, whom Malayalees consider as their King, travels from the underworld to this world to check if his subjects are leading a prosperous abundant life. As a gesture to welcome their beloved King, Onam is celebrated as a 10 day festival.

This festival is very colourful as apart from the new clothes that all get to wear, a traditional PooKolam is drawn. It is a kind of Rangoli but made with seasonal flowers. each day a round of flowers is drwan leading to 10 circles that coincides with the 10th day - ThiruOnam!

When we speak of festivals the major attration is the festive food that one gets to make, share and relish! This day the special menu is called Ona Sadya. Since this is a festival that is celebrated by entire community, many community sponsored Ona Sadyas are organised so that everyone can celebrate this festival!

This year our Onam Sadya comprised Pal Payasam, Vendakkai Thaiyr Pachhadi, Vellarika Pachhadi, Kathirikkai Murangakkai Chembu Sambar, Ammama's Rasam, Cabbage Carrot Peas Thoran, Kalan, Erisheri, Aviyal, Buttermilk, Avakkai, Pulikachal, Pazham Nurukku, Nendran Chips, Appalam, Chakka Upperi, Sharkara Upperi and Elaichi Kela.

Share on Google Plus

About C R Meena

(c) 2014 - 2016, Meena's Taste Mantra is the result of my ardent desire to share my recipes, with all who appreciate and celebrate food. These recipes are as a result of 60 years of cooking experience, influenced by tradition and exposure to various concepts, new recipes/ingredients and a passion for cooking - adapting to healthier alternatives.