Indians in UAE celebrate Onam. SUBHASH MENON/EXPAT MEDIA READER

Onam, the vibrant and joyous festival celebrated predominantly in the southern Indian state of Kerala, has found a warm and welcoming home in the UAE. Marking the Malayalam month of Chingam, this 10-day festival begins with Atham and concludes on Thiruvonam, symbolizing the homecoming of the generous King Mahabali. For Malayalees in the UAE, Onam is not just a festival; it's a cultural spectacle that transcends religious, social and ethnic barriers, bringing communities together in celebration. In the UAE, Onam is celebrated with enthusiasm and a sense of unity that resonates deeply within the Malayalee community. Companies and organizations across the country host Onam festivities, featuring traditional games, music, and the much-anticipated Onam feast, known as Onam Sadya. Offices are adorned with vibrant floral carpets called Pookalam, and participants often dress in traditional attire, with men wearing the 'mundu' and women donning Kerala sarees, complete with jasmine flowers in their hair. The Onam Sadya, an elaborate banquet, is the festival's highlight. Served on a banana leaf, it comprises over two dozen dishes, starting with banana chips and jaggery chips, followed by an assortment of pickles, curries like sambar, avial, pulissery, and ending with the sweet payasam. This culinary extravaganza brings people together, encouraging families to prepare and share dishes, fostering a spirit of togetherness. Beyond the grand feast, Onam in the UAE is marked by traditional games, dance performances like Thiruvathirakali, and other cultural events that highlight Kerala's rich heritage. The UAE's multicultural environment often sees people from other nationalities joining in the festivities, embracing the cultural diversity and unity that Onam promotes. For many Malayalees, Onam in the UAE is a cherished tradition. This writer shares, "Since moving here in 2014, I've celebrated every Onam in the UAE. Our office celebrations with Pookalam and distributing payasam have become an annual ritual, emphasizing how this festival unites people beyond all differences." This year, Thiruvonam fell on a Sunday, allowing for a more elaborate celebration, with over 40 participants coming together to contribute to the feast. Onam in the UAE serves as a reminder of Kerala's cultural legacy while showcasing the unity and inclusivity that the UAE embodies. The celebrations are a testament to how cultural festivities can bring communities together, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual respect. Subhash Menon/Expat Media
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