Onam Celebrations

There are several activities that take place all over the state of Kerala during the ten days of Onam. Attam marks the beginning of Onam. From the very first day, people put pookkalam (floral rangoli) at their entranceway, using a number of flowers.

It is a tradition and a part of the celebrations of Onam festival.In Some areas pookkalam competitions are held. Special prayers in the local temples are also said on the first day, Atham. Kaikotti kali (also known as Thiruvathira kali) is the main dance of Onam. This is the traditional dance, truly native to Kerala. Kaikotti kali is performed by middle-aged women, who stand around deepam (traditional Kerala deep). The women are clad in set saree (traditional Kerala dress) and accessorized with gold jewelry. Eight to twelve women can perform the dance. Another dance form that is performed during the season is known as 'Pulikali' or 'Kaduvakali'.

 The outdoor games such as 'Talappanthukali' (ball game), 'Kayyankali' (one-to-one fight between men, without using weapon), 'Attakalam' (fight between men, played in groups) Ambeyyal (Archery) and 'Kutu Kutu' (Kabaddi) are the popular Onam games, played with great enthusiasm and high level of energy, during the festive season of Onam.Vallamkali or the popular snake boat race is a sporting event, organized at several parts of the state on uthratadhi nakshatram of Chingam (Malayalam month).Onam calls for shopping of clothes and furbishes for the home. It is a part of the tradition of Onam, to wear new clothes and buy attire for the family and friends. Apart from clothing, people enjoy shopping for new furniture.