Thiruvananthapuram, August 25
Markets across Kerala witnessed heavy crowds until late on Monday as Malayalis rushed to complete their purchases ahead of Thiruvonam, the most important day of the Onam festival.
The final shopping rush on Uthradam, popularly called “Uthradappachil”, saw families flocking to vegetable markets, grocery stores, textile outlets and roadside stalls. Flowers, new clothes, vegetables and other ingredients required for the traditional Onasadya were in high demand.
For Malayalis, Onam represents much more than a religious or cultural celebration. The festival symbolises the harvest season, prosperity, happiness and the enduring ideal of an egalitarian society. Uthradam, observed a day before Thiruvonam, has held particular significance in Kerala’s festive traditions.
According to popular belief, Emperor Mahabali begins his journey from the netherworld on Uthradam to visit his subjects. His annual homecoming is celebrated as a symbol of peace, prosperity and communal harmony.
Households spent the day cleaning and decorating their premises, preparing dishes for the elaborate Onasadya and arranging colourful floral carpets. The Uthradam floral carpet is traditionally among the largest made during the Onam season.
Families also cleaned large brass lamps with tamarind and ash before filling them with oil. The customary “Uthradam lamp” was lit in the evening, while images of deities were decorated with flower garlands.
Despite the strain on household budgets, families prioritised festival purchases, keeping commercial centres active late into the night.
Several regions also witnessed traditional Aadivedan Theyyam performances. Artists moved through village roads and visited houses to announce the arrival of Onam. Children dressed in colourful ritual attire accompanied the performances and blessed families.
Devotees prayed before the Theyyam figures for protection from illness and hardship. Aadivedan performances will be followed by Onathar Theyyam, lending a vibrant folk dimension to Kerala’s Thiruvonam celebrations.
