Festivals have a strange magic that brings people together and Onam is no different. Families from across the globe make it to their tharavadu veedu (ancestral home) when it’s time for Onam. After all, it’s a festival that has to be celebrated with the entire extended family and in authentic Kerala style.

As kids, we barely understood the concept of Onam. But as we grew up, our understanding of the festival grew. Though just a harvest festival, Onam is strongly rooted in culture and traditions. And as Malayalis, we take immense pride in it. 

We asked a few Malayalis and non-Malayalis who have celebrated Onam to share their fondest memories and this is what they had to say: 

So there you have it. Onam is not just a harvest festival. It’s the time when people forget their differences and come together. It’s a celebration of love and togetherness. 

Designs by Saurabh Rathore