Onam, a vibrant festival celebrated in Kerala, India, is synonymous with grand celebrations called Onam Sadhya. It is a ten-day celebration that marks the homecoming of King Mahabali, a mythical ruler whose reign was considered the golden age of Kerala. The festival is also associated with the rice harvest, a major crop in the region. Onam is a vibrant and joyous festival that reflects the essence of Kerala’s culture. It is a time for family, friends and community to come together and celebrate the rich heritage of the state.
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Onam 2024 Dates: When is Onam 2024?
This year, Onam 2024 will begin on Friday, September 6, 2024, and end on Sunday, September 15, 2024.
Onam 2024: Rituals and Traditions
- Pookalam: One of the most iconic symbols of Onam is the Pookalam, a floral carpet made of colourful flowers. It is believed to attract King Mahabali back to earth.
- Boat Races: The Vallamkali or snake boat race is a thrilling spectacle during Onam. Teams of boatmen compete in long, decorated boats on the backwaters of Kerala.
- Puja: During this festival, devotees offer prayers to various gods and goddesses.
- Onakkodi: People wear new clothes to celebrate this occasion which is known as Onakkodi.
- Exchange of gifts: It is customary to exchange gifts with friends and family during Onam.
- Sadhya: A lavish vegetarian feast is served on Onam day, usually consisting of more than 26-28 dishes. It includes rice, sambhar, rasam, various curries, pickles and a variety of sweets.
What is Onam Sadhya? What is its significance?
Onam Sadhya is more than just food; it is a cultural celebration that brings families and communities together. The festival is believed to be celebrated in honour of King Mahabali, a mythical ruler whose reign was considered the golden age of Kerala. The 10-day Onam festival ends on Thiruvonam, when Sadhya is traditionally served on a banana leaf. This elaborate vegetarian meal usually consists of 26-28 dishes, which can go up to 64 dishes. Sadhya is a culinary masterpiece that showcases the rich flavours and traditions of Kerala.
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How is Onam Sadhya made? It consists of…
Onam Sadhya is a harmonious blend of sweet, salty and spicy flavours. The meal typically includes:
- Rice: A variety of rice, such as matta rice or red rice, forms the base of the sadhya.
- Sambar: A strongly flavoured lentil-based curry, often made with vegetables and spices.
- Rasam: Thin, spicy soup made from tamarind, tomatoes and spices.
- Pachadi: A variety of vegetable-based dishes, including avial (mixed vegetable curry), olan (pumpkin and coconut stew) and thoran (fried vegetables).
- Curry: A variety of curries, such as mezhukkupuratti (fried vegetables) and kalan (a spicy curry), add depth and complexity to the meal.
- Pickles: A variety of pickles including mango pickle, lemon pickle and chilli pickle add a tangy flavour to the sadhya.
- Sweets: Sadhya concludes with a variety of sweets, such as payasam (rice pudding), pradhaman (a sweet made of jaggery) and palada pradhaman (sweet rice pudding).
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Health Benefits of Onam Sadhya
Onam Sadhya is not only a delicious feast but also nutritious. The variety of dishes ensures a balanced intake of carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins and minerals. Here are some of the major health benefits of Onam Sadhya:
- Rich in fibre: An abundance of veggies and fibre-rich foods aid digestion and promote satiety.
- Balanced Nutrients: Sadhya provides a balanced diet containing a variety of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
- Healthy Fats: Coconut oil and ghee, used in many Sadhya recipes, provide healthy fats that promote overall health.
- Plant-based proteins: Various vegetable curries and dals are a good source of plant-based proteins.
- Antioxidant Power: The spices and herbs used in Sadhya recipes are known for their antioxidant properties, which help prevent cell damage.
So enjoy the delicious Sadhya and have a blissful Onam Sadhya 2024!
