Children and youngsters vied with each to create the best pookkalams in the courtyaards and share their creations with family and friends.
| Photo Credit: Thulasi Kakkat
For Malayalis in Keralam and around the world, Wednesday (August 26, 2026) dawned with the excitement of the much-awaited Thiruvonam, which caps the 10-day Onam festivities that kick off on Atham day in the Malayalam almanac.Onam, which has come to be identified by vibrant pookkalams (flower carpets), sumptuous sadyas, golden-bordered traditional attire, and traditional games, is also a time when Malayalis around the globe return home to share in the joy and festivities with loved ones. Families spanning generations get together and enjoy the day.Those who are unable to reunite with family members in ‘God’s Own Country’ try and recapture the spirit of the festivities wherever they are, complete with the pookkalam, Onasadya, songs and dance, and the traditional swings.While many older traditions evolve with changing times, the fervour of the celebrations remains the same.
Onam festival celebrations at at Vellore Kerala Samajam at Thotapalayam.
| Photo Credit:
