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The term “desi” is a term that is commonly used by people from the Indian subcontinent to refer to themselves or other people (origin or ancestry) from the region.
The word “Desi” is derived from the Sanskrit word “desh,” which means “country” or “region” or “homeland”. (‘Sanskrit’ word ‘Desh’? What is Sanskrit?)
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Onam
Summary
Nestled in the southwestern corner of India lies the enchanting state of Kerala, a land renowned for its natural beauty, cultural richness, and vibrant festivals – often referred to as God’s own land. One such celebration that captivates the hearts of people of Kerala and visitors alike is Onam, a ten-day harvest festival that brings together tales of kings, Gods, cultural traditions, and a sumptuous feast that reflects the essence of Kerala’s spirit.
About Kerala
Kerala is a state in the southwest of India. It is located on the Malabar coast, which is bordered by the Arabian Sea to the west, Karnataka to the north and northeast, and Tamil Nadu to the east. The capital of Kerala is Thiruvananthapuram.
Kerala is known for its ecotourism initiatives, beautiful backwaters, and unique culture and traditions. It is also known as “God’s own Country”.
Kerala is a small state, making up only about 1 percent of India’s total area. It has a population of 30 million and a surface area of 38,900 km2. The majority language is Malayalam.
King Mahabali and Lord Vamana
At the heart of Onam lies the legend of King Mahabali and Lord Vamana (an avatar of Lord Vishnu). Mahabali, known for his just rule and devotion, attracted the attention of Lord Vishnu, who took the form of Vamana, a learned man but who is of a very small stature. Seeking alms, Vamana asked for three paces of land from the generous King Bali . The King grants his request. Vamana then grows to a giant and with his first two strides, he covered the earth and heavens. As there was no place for the third step, Mahabali offered his head and Vamana places his foot and pushes the king to the nether worlds. Impressed by his selflessness, Vamana granted him a boon to visit his kingdom once a year, a celebration that came to be known as Onam.
Ten Days of Onam
Onam spans ten days, each marked by unique rituals and festivities:
Onam: A Festival of 10 Days
Onam, the vibrant harvest festival of Kerala, unfolds over ten days, each brimming with its unique traditions, rituals, and cultural significance.
Day 1 – Atham
The festival commences with Atham, marked by the creation of a simple floral arrangement, “Pookkalam,” at the entrance of homes. It symbolizes the start of the festivities and encourages creativity and community engagement. This is a day of preparation. People clean their homes and decorate them with flowers. They also buy new clothes and food for the festival. This marks King Mahabali’s preparations to journey from Heaven to his earthly kingdom.
Day 2 – Chithira
Chithira signifies the essence of unity and the spirit of togetherness. The creation of Onam Pookkalam, a floral carpet, symbolizes this day’s festivities.Homes come alive with color as people contribute to the floral patterns. Pookkalam are made by women and children, and they are placed in front of homes and temples.
Day 3 – Chodhi
Another layer of flowers is added to the carpet, employing an assortment of four to five flower types. Families prepare for the days ahead by engaging in collective activities. This is a day of fasting and prayer. People pray for the well-being of their families and friends.
Day 4 – Vishakam
Vishakam sees the Pookkalam taking a more intricate form. The day holds a special significance as it marks the start of many cultural performances and events that continue throughout Onam. This is a day of celebration. People feast on traditional Onam dishes and enjoy cultural performances. This day launches various tournaments as part of the celebration.
Day 5 – Anizham
On Anizham, the Pookkalam continues to flourish with more complex designs. The festivities gain momentum, and various art forms like traditional dances and music performances grace the stages. On this day, people visit temples and offer prayers. Preparations for the grand boat race take place on this fifth day.
Day 6 – Thriketa
Thriketa witnesses a heightened enthusiasm as the Pookkalam becomes even more intricate and captivating. It’s a day of joy and excitement, as the community comes together to celebrate their shared cultural heritage. Festive celebrations are ignited on this day.
Day 7 – Moolam
As Moolam dawns, the Pookkalam reaches its zenith, showcasing the mastery of floral artistry. Traditional rituals and prayers are performed, reflecting the spiritual essence of Onam. Temples come alive with special pujas and rituals.
Day 8 – Pooradam
On Pooradam or Pooram, the excitement builds as families prepare for the upcoming boat races, “Vallamkali.” The highlight of the day is a grand procession of elephants and dancers. Idols of Vamana and King Mahabali are raised in homes to commemorate this day.
Day 9 – Uthradom
Uthradom, the penultimate day, is marked by intense preparations for the grand feast, “Onam Sadya.” Homes are cleaned, and ingredients are gathered for the culinary extravaganza. Mahabali’s symbolic entry into Kerala is observed. This is a day of homecoming. People believe that King Mahabali returns to Kerala on this day. They welcome him with a feast and prayers.
Day 10 – Thiru Onam
The pinnacle of Onam arrives with Thiru Onam or Thiruvonam. Homes are adorned with grand Pookkalams, and families don traditional attire. The day commences with rituals and prayers, followed by the grand Onam Sadya feast, where families and communities gather to savor the diverse flavors of Kerala’s cuisine. Cultural performances, games, and festivities mark the day, reminding everyone of the cultural unity and harmony that Onam symbolizes. The pinnacle of the celebration, this day sees the warm and reverential welcome of King Mahabali by the people of Kerala.
Onam Traditions
Pookkalam
This is a floral carpet made of fresh flowers arranged in intricate patterns on the floor. People start making pookkalam from Atham onwards, and add a new layer every day until Thiruvonam. The pookkalam symbolizes the welcome to King Mahabali and also showcases the artistic talent of the people.
Vallamkali
On the Pampa River, traditional boat races called “Vallamkali” are held, reflecting Kerala’s maritime heritage and unity. This boat race takes place on the backwaters of Kerala. The boats are long and narrow, and can accommodate up to 100 rowers.
The rowers wear white mundu (a traditional garment) and colorful turbans, and sing songs to synchronize their movements. The boat race is a spectacle of speed, skill, and teamwork.
Onakalikal
Traditional games such as tug-of-war, archery, and martial arts competitions engage participants and spectators.
Kayyikali is one of the famous sport – where the opponents use fists. This is quite brutal but popular. Usually has two teams. Read more here.
Sadya
This is a grand feast served on a banana leaf, consisting of various vegetarian dishes – including “Avial” (mixed vegetable stew), “Sambhar” (lentil stew with seasonal vegetables and spices), “Parippu” (lentil dish), rice, pickles, papadum, and payasam (a sweet dessert). Sadya is usually eaten with hands, and is considered a highlight of Onam. People invite their friends and relatives for sadya, and enjoy the food and company. The harmonious blend of flavors mirrors Kerala’s multicultural landscape.
Thiruvathirakali
This is a dance performed by women, dressed in white sarees with golden borders. They form a circle around a lamp or a floral decoration, and sway gracefully to the rhythm of a song. The dance is dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati, and expresses the love and devotion of women towards their husbands.
PuliKali
This is a folk art that involves men painting their bodies as tigers and leopards, and dancing to the beats of drums. The performers wear masks and costumes, and mimic the movements of wild animals. The pulikali is a fun and colorful way to entertain the crowds.
Onathappan
This is a clay pyramid that represents King Mahabali or Lord Vishnu. It is placed in the center of the pookalam, and worshipped with flowers, fruits, and incense. On Thiruvonam day, the onathappan is immersed in water, as a farewell to King Mahabali.
Onam’s Cultural Significance
Onam symbolizes the spirit of unity and togetherness, across all classes of society. The festival underscores Kerala’s agrarian roots, where the harvest is celebrated as a community effort. People from all walks of life come together to partake in the festivities, reinforcing the essence of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” the world as one family.
Onam Beyond Kerala
As the Indian diaspora spreads across the world, so does the spirit of Onam. Indians of Kerala origin living outside the state organize celebrations that bring a taste of Kerala’s traditions and flavors to distant shores.
Onam, with its legends, intricate floral carpets, boat races, and grand feasts, offers a window into Kerala’s cultural ethos. It encapsulates the colorful tapestry of this enchanting land and serves as a testament to unity, harmony, and the enduring ties that bind its people.
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Sankranti
What is Sankranti?
A Celebration of Abundance: Sankranti and Pongal stand out as vibrant celebrations of harvest and abundance. As we delve into these festivities, we’ll unravel the cultural threads that bind communities across India.
Sankranti: The Solar Odyssey
Makar Sankranti, widely celebrated across India, marks the sun’s transition into the Capricorn zodiac. The festival signifies the end of winter and the beginning of longer days. In Gujarat, the festival manifests as the colorful Uttarayan, featuring kite-flying competitions that fill the sky with vibrant hues. People engage in friendly duels, showcasing their kite-flying skills, and the entire atmosphere resonates with joy. In Punjab, Makar Sankranti is celebrated as Lohri, marked by bonfires, traditional dances, and the sharing of sweets. The diversity in the celebration of Makar Sankranti reflects the cultural richness of India.
Lohri: Bonfires and Harvest Celebrations
Embed from Getty ImagesLohri, associated with Makar Sankranti, is predominantly celebrated in Punjab. This harvest festival is marked by the lighting of bonfires, symbolizing the end of winter and the longer days ahead. People come together to dance the traditional Bhangra, sing folk songs, and share the warmth of the bonfire. Lohri is a communal celebration that emphasizes the importance of community and the agricultural abundance that sustains it.
The top three special dishes made for this festival:
- Sarson da Saag and Makki di Roti: This iconic combination features mustard greens cooked with spices (Sarson da Saag) served with unleavened cornflour flatbread (Makki di Roti).
- Til and Gur (Sesame and Jaggery Sweets): Lohri is incomplete without the traditional sweets made with sesame seeds and jaggery, symbolizing the harvest season.
- Pindi Chana: Pindi Chana, a spiced chickpea curry, is a hearty dish enjoyed during Lohri festivities.
Sankranti in Andhra Pradesh
Embed from Getty ImagesDecorated Bulls for Sankranti – Below walks through fire
Embed from Getty ImagesIn Andhra Pradesh, Sankranti is a three-day extravaganza, each day with its unique significance. The first day, Bhogi, involves the burning of old possessions, symbolizing new beginnings. The second day, Sankranti, sees colorful rangoli designs adorning homes, and families coming together to share festive meals. The third day, Kanuma, is dedicated to the worship of cattle. This three-day celebration showcases the diversity of customs within the broader framework of Sankranti.
The top three special dishes made for this festival:
- Pulihora (Tamarind Rice): Pulihora, a tangy and flavorful rice dish, is a Sankranti staple in Andhra Pradesh.
- Ariselu (Sweet Rice Pancakes): Ariselu, made with rice flour and jaggery, are deep-fried until golden brown, creating a delightful sweet treat.
- Garelu (Urad Dal Vada): Garelu, crispy and savory urad dal vadas, are enjoyed during Sankranti festivities.
Pongal: Tamil Nadu’s Harvest Symphony
Embed from Getty ImagesPongal, a harvest festival celebrated in Tamil Nadu, is a grand affair. The festival spans four days, with each day holding its distinct significance. The highlight is the preparation of Pongal, a dish made with newly harvested rice, symbolizing prosperity and abundance. The festivities involve traditional music, dance, and the exchange of sugarcane and colorful kolams (rangoli). Pongal is a time for gratitude and appreciation for the bounties of the harvest.
The top three special dishes made for this festival:
- Ven Pongal (Savory Rice Porridge): Ven Pongal, a comfort dish made with rice and lentils, is a savory delight.
- Chakkarai Pongal (Sweet Jaggery Pongal): Chakkarai Pongal, prepared with jaggery and ghee, is a delicious sweet variation.
- Medu Vada (Urad Dal Fritters): Medu Vada, crispy and savory urad dal fritters, complements the Pongal feast.
Bhogali Bihu: Assam’s Harvest Festival
Embed from Getty ImagesBhogali Bihu, celebrated in Assam, marks the end of the harvesting season. It is characterized by community feasts, known as Uruka, where people come together to share traditional Assamese dishes. The night is spent around bonfires, reinforcing the sense of community and warmth during the winter season. The festival also involves traditional sports and cultural events, making it a holistic celebration of Assamese culture.
The top three special dishes made for this festival:
- Laru (Sesame and Jaggery Balls): Laru, made with sesame seeds and jaggery, is a sweet delight during Bhogali Bihu.
- Pitha (Assorted Rice Cakes): Pitha, a variety of rice cakes, is a traditional delicacy enjoyed during the festival.
- Masor Tenga (Fish Curry): Masor Tenga, a tangy fish curry with bamboo shoots, is a savory highlight.
Uttarayan: Gujarat’s Extravaganza
Uttarayan, the kite festival in Gujarat, coincides with Makar Sankranti. The skies above Gujarat transform into a vibrant canvas with kites of various shapes and sizes. The festival is not just about kite-flying; it is a cultural spectacle that includes traditional food, music, and the spirit of friendly competition. Families and friends gather on terraces to enjoy the festivities, creating an atmosphere of joy and togetherness.
Embed from Getty ImagesKite Festival: Colors in the Sky
The Kite Festival, an integral part of Makar Sankranti celebrations, is especially vibrant in Gujarat. The sky becomes a canvas of colorful kites, creating a visual spectacle. Participants engage in skillful maneuvers, attempting to cut each other’s kite strings. The festival is not just a competition; it’s a celebration of skill, artistry, and the joy of flying kites. Families and friends gather on rooftops, adding to the festive spirit with music, food, and camaraderie.
Embed from Getty ImagesThe top three special dishes made for this festival:
Diwali or Deepavali: India’s Festival of Lights
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most significant festivals in India. Celebrated by millions of people across the world, it marks the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. For the Indian diaspora, Diwali is a connection to their cultural roots, while for many non-Indians, it’s a time to appreciate the joy, community, and beauty of the festival.
The Five Days of Diwali: A Celebration Across India
Each day of Diwali is filled with unique traditions, rituals, and cultural practices. While the five days (celebrated during the Hindu Lunisolar month Kartika (between mid-October and mid-November)) are celebrated across India, the customs can vary greatly from region to region.
The main day of the festival of Diwali (the day of Lakshmi puja) is an official holiday in Fiji, Guyana, India, Malaysia (except Sarawak), Mauritius, Myanmar, Nepal, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago.
Diwali/Deepavali 2024 Fri, Nov 1, 2024 – 9 countries – Thu, Oct 31, 2024 – 5 countries
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What does Diwali or Deepavali mean?
The word Diwali comes from the Sanskrit word Deepavali, meaning “rows of lighted lamps”. (Deepa – Light/lamp Avali – row)
(Featured image at the top of the post – Photo by Udayaditya Barua on Unsplash)
Day 1: Dhanteras – Welcoming Wealth and Prosperity
Dhanteras marks the official start of Diwali. This day is dedicated to the worship of Dhanvantari, the physician of the gods, and Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth.
- Story: The churning of the ocean, or Samudra Manthan, led to the emergence of both Lakshmi and Dhanvantari holding the pot of nectar (Amrit). Lord Dhanvantari, the Hindu god of medicine and an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, is said to have brought Ayurveda and Amrit, the nectar of immortality to mankind on this day and he is traditionally also worshipped in some parts of the country. There are a number of temples in Kerala and Tamil Nadu dedicated to Dhanvantari and Ayurveda.
Sagara Manthana (Sanskrit for the Churning of the Ocean) is important in the Hindu stories of origin and are widely depicted in temples in India and Asia. The largest bas relief in the world about this story can be found in Angkor Wat in Cambodia – the largest known Hindu temple (this one is dedicated to Lord Vishnu) in the world.
- Traditions: People buy precious metals like gold, silver, and new utensils, believing it brings good fortune. Homes are cleaned and illuminated with oil lamps to invite Lakshmi’s blessings.
- Regional Variations: In North India, Dhanteras is celebrated with house cleaning and shopping, while in South India, families prepare for the next day’s Naraka Chaturdashi.
Day 2: Naraka Chaturdashi (Chhoti Diwali) – Victory of Light over Evil
Known as Chhoti Diwali in the north and Naraka Chaturdashi in the south, this day symbolizes the victory of good over evil.
- Story: In South India, it celebrates Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura, who had imprisoned thousands of women. Krishna’s triumph is seen as the victory of righteousness.
- Traditions: The day starts with an early morning oil bath, lighting of diyas, and bursting of firecrackers to symbolize the triumph of light over darkness.
- Regional Variations: In North India, people light diyas in preparation for the main day of Diwali. In Maharashtra, families celebrate by taking ritual baths before sunrise, followed by offering food to deities.
Day 3: Lakshmi Puja (Main Diwali Day) – The Festival of Wealth and Prosperity
The third day is the most important and widely celebrated day of Diwali. Lakshmi Puja is performed to honor Goddess Lakshmi, invoking her blessings for wealth and prosperity.
- Story: This day is linked to Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after his 14-year exile and victory over Ravana. His homecoming was celebrated by lighting oil lamps across the city.
Carvings showing Lord Rama’s is victorious in battles with Ravana and returns to Ayodhya after his 14-year exile. Learn more about the Ellora temple and it’s carvings here.
- Traditions: Homes and businesses are illuminated with oil lamps, candles, and colorful rangolis. Lakshmi is worshipped in the evening, and families exchange gifts and sweets.
- Regional Variations: In West Bengal, this day is dedicated to Kali Puja, honoring Goddess Kali with elaborate pandals and rituals. In Gujarat, it marks the new financial year, with businessmen offering prayers for prosperity.
Day 4: Govardhan Puja (Annakut) – Celebrating Lord Krishna’s Protection
Govardhan Puja, also known as Annakut, celebrates the legend of Lord Krishna lifting Govardhan Hill to protect the villagers from torrential rains.
- Story: When Indra, the King of Gods and the god of rain and thunder, shows his anger on the villagers for not worshipping him, Krishna lifted the hill to shelter them. This act is seen as a victory of humility over arrogance. Learn more here
- Traditions: People create a small hill made of cow dung, symbolizing Govardhan, and worship it. Temples prepare large offerings of food, known as Annakut.
- Regional Variations: In North India, this day focuses on preparing grand feasts, while in Maharashtra, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, it’s known as Bali Pratipada or Bali Padyami, celebrating the victory of Lord Vishnu as Vamana over King Bali. Learn more here.
In Gujarat, Annakut is the first day of the new year and celebrated through the purchase of essentials, or sabras (literally, “good things in life”), such as salt, offering prayers to Krishna and visiting temples.
Trade and merchant families and others also offer prayers to Goddess Saraswati, who embodies music, literature and learning and Kubera, who symbolizes book-keeping, treasury and wealth management.
In western states such as Gujarat, and certain northern Hindu communities of India, the festival of Diwali signifies the start of a new year and a new Financial year.
Day 5: Bhai Dooj – Celebrating the Bond of Siblings
The final day of Diwali, Bhai Dooj, honors the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters pray for their brothers’ long life, and brothers vow to protect their sisters.
- Mythical Story: This tradition is linked to the meeting of Yamraj, the god of death, with his sister Yamuna. Yama granted her a boon that every brother who visits his sister on this day will live long and prosper.
- Traditions: Sisters apply a ceremonial tilak on their brothers’ foreheads, perform aarti, and exchange sweets. Brothers, in turn, give gifts to their sisters.
- Regional Variations: In Maharashtra, this day is celebrated as Bhau Beej, with similar sibling rituals. In Bihar and UP, it’s marked by family gatherings and feasts.
Regional Variations: How Diwali is Celebrated Across India
Diwali’s core themes remain consistent, but each region brings its unique touch to the festival.
North India: A Celebration of Rama’s Return
- Traditions: Diwali is linked to Rama’s victory over Ravana. Homes are decorated with diyas, and streets are lit with dazzling lights.
- Foods: Families prepare sweets like Gujia, Kaju Katli, and Ladoos.
- Special Customs: Elaborate Ramlila performances narrating Lord Rama’s life are held in many towns.
South India: Deepavali and Narakasura’s Defeat
- Traditions: In South India, Deepavali celebrates Lord Krishna’s defeat of Narakasura. People take early morning oil baths and wear new clothes.
- Foods: Popular treats include Murukku, Adhirasam, and Mysore Pak.
- Special Customs: Lighting lamps before sunrise and bursting crackers early in the morning.
West India: Lakshmi and New Beginnings
- Traditions: In Gujarat and Maharashtra, Diwali marks the new financial year. Businesspeople perform Lakshmi Puja and close old accounts.
- Foods: Shrikhand, Chakli, and Farsan are common festive foods.
- Special Customs: Families decorate their homes with rangolis and welcome guests with sweets.
East India: Kali Puja and the Worship of the Fierce Goddess
- Traditions: In West Bengal, Diwali coincides with Kali Puja, where Goddess Kali is worshipped with elaborate pandals and rituals.
- Foods: Popular sweets include Rasgulla and Sandesh.
- Special Customs: Kali Puja is celebrated through the night, with pandals and firecrackers symbolizing the destruction of evil.
Diwali Around the World: Celebrating with the Indian Diaspora
For the Indian diaspora, Diwali represents a connection to cultural roots. Large-scale celebrations are held in countries like the United States, UK, Canada, Singapore, and Mauritius. Community events, including lighting ceremonies, fireworks, and traditional dance performances, are embraced not only by Indians but also by local communities who celebrate the festival’s universal message of hope and joy.
Spiritual and Environmental Significance
While Diwali is a time for celebration, it is also a period of spiritual reflection. The festival encourages people to dispel darkness and ignorance from their lives and embrace knowledge, light, and goodness.
- Eco-Friendly Diwali: In recent years, many have adopted eco-friendly practices, reducing the use of firecrackers, opting for sustainable decorations, and donating to the less fortunate.
Foods of Diwali: A Culinary Journey Across India
Diwali is as much about food as it is about lights. Each region of India has its own special dishes that make the celebration delicious and memorable.
- North India: Kaju Katli, Jalebi, Petha.
- South India: Payasam, Murukku, Mysore Pak.
- West India: Farsan, Chakli, Shrikhand.
- East India: Rasgulla, Sandesh, Nimki.
FAQs About Diwali
- Why is Diwali celebrated over five days?
Diwali spans five days, each with its own significance, from Dhanteras (welcoming wealth) to Bhai Dooj (honoring sibling bonds). - What is the story behind Diwali?
Diwali marks Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana, and also celebrates Lakshmi’s blessings and Krishna’s defeat of Narakasura. - How is Diwali different in various regions of India?
In North India, it celebrates Lord Rama’s return, while in South India, it’s linked to Lord Krishna’s victory. East India focuses on Kali Puja. - What foods are prepared during Diwali?
Regional sweets like Kaju Katli in North India, Murukku in South India, and Rasgulla in East India are popular. - What is the proper greeting for Diwali?
‘Happy Diwali’ or ‘Happy Deepavali’ will do the trick, but there are other Diwali wishes you can say to anyone celebrating the festival. A traditional Diwali greeting is to say “Wishing you a Diwali that brings happiness prosperity and joy to you and all your family”.
Conclusion: Diwali – A Festival That Unites Us All
Diwali is more than just a festival; it’s a reminder of the power of light, hope, and unity. Across India and the world, families come together to celebrate the triumph of good over evil, making Diwali a truly global festival. Whether through traditional pujas, eco-friendly celebrations, or sharing sweets with loved ones, Diwali remains a festival that brings people together.
The term Desi can refer to people of Indian subcontinent origin or ancestry, or it can refer to the cultural practices and products of the region.
Desi food, will include dishes such as biryani, Pongal, samosas, Dosa, Idli, Parantha, Chawal and dal, while Desi fashion may feature traditional clothing styles like sarees, salwar kameez, Dhoti, and kurta pajama.
Desi music may include traditional folk music (dozens of styles), classical music (also several distinct schools), traditional dance (several traditional and ancient styles) and popular movie or music genres like Bollywood, Tollywood, Kollywood, Mollywood (all different regional language film industry names – a play on the word Hollywood).
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