By Desis, for Desis and Everyone Else!!
This site seeks to demystify Indian customs and culture for anyone who wants to learn more. Hopefully, you find the content interesting, educational and find answers to questions you had, but never asked.
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What’s a Desi?
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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Desi people can come from countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Maldives. The term can also be used to describe aspects of Indian origin culture, including food, clothing, music, and art.
Samsara – is our existence an endless cycle?
Summary
The concept of Samsara refers to the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth that all living beings are believed to go through. According to this belief, a person’s actions and thoughts in their current life determine their future experiences, including their next birth. This cycle continues indefinitely until the individual is able to break free from it through attaining Moksha, or liberation from the cycle.
What is Samsara?
Samsara as understood in India, means that all living beings are subject to the cycle of samsara, which involves repeated cycles of birth, death, and rebirth.
In each new life, an individual is born into a new body and environment, determined by their past actions and karma.
The cycle of samsara continues indefinitely until the individual is able to break free from it through attaining Moksha.
Samsara, originating from the Sanskrit word meaning “wandering” or “continuous flow,” refers to the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth experienced by sentient beings. It is a fundamental concept deeply embedded in Indian cultural texts, including Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, each offering its unique perspective on this eternal cycle.
In the realm of Indian philosophy, Samsara is viewed as a cyclical journey of the soul through various lifetimes. It is believed that every individual soul, known as the Atman, is bound to this cycle until it achieves liberation or Moksha. The quality of one’s actions, guided by the law of Karma, determines the circumstances and experiences of each subsequent birth within Samsara.
Buddhism, too, acknowledges Samsara as a perpetual cycle of suffering.
Rooted in the Four Noble Truths, Buddhism posits that the attachment and craving for worldly desires bind individuals to this cycle, leading to perpetual dissatisfaction and rebirth. The goal in Buddhism is to break free from Samsara by attaining Nirvana, the state of ultimate liberation from suffering.
Jainism, known for its emphasis on non-violence and asceticism, also acknowledges Samsara as an unending cycle of birth and death.
In Jain philosophy, every living being, from the tiniest microorganism to the highest celestial being, is believed to be trapped in Samsara due to karmic bondage.
The path to liberation lies in the purification of the soul through right conduct, austerity, and the renunciation of attachments.
Sikhism, a distinct tradition that emerged in the Indian subcontinent, envisions Samsara as a cycle of birth and death influenced by individual actions and thoughts.
In Sikh philosophy, liberation from Samsara is sought through devotion to the divine, following the teachings of the Guru Granth Sahib, and leading a righteous and selfless life.
Across these various philosophical traditions, Samsara represents a state of perpetual existence, where individuals are subject to the fluctuations of joy and suffering, pleasure and pain, success and failure.
It is a continuous cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, perpetuated by desires, attachments, and the consequences of past actions.
The understanding of Samsara underscores the transient nature of worldly existence, urging individuals to seek liberation and transcendence.
It prompts a reflection on the impermanence and unsatisfactory nature of phenomenal reality, inspiring the pursuit of spiritual growth and the quest for ultimate truth.
The recognition of Samsara’s transient nature guides us towards seeking spiritual enlightenment, liberation, and the realization of our true nature beyond the boundaries of this eternal cycle.
What is rebirth and transmigration?
If we were to imagine life as a grand journey, with multiple stops along the way, and each stop represents a lifetime, a unique adventure filled with joys, challenges, and growth.
Now, let’s say that after each stop, we pack our bags, bid farewell to that stop and everything at that stop (and that particular body), and hop onto the next train to our next destination.
That’s rebirth in a nutshell.
It’s the idea that after our current life ends, our soul or consciousness moves on to another body, ready to embark on a brand new adventure. It’s like changing costumes for the next act in the cosmic theater of existence.
But what determines which train we board and what kind of journey awaits us?
That’s where transmigration comes into play. Transmigration suggests that the quality of our next journey is influenced by our actions, thoughts, and choices in our previous lives. It’s as if our deeds and experiences leave an impression on our soul, shaping the path and circumstances of our future lives.
So, if we led a life filled with kindness, compassion, and love, it’s like booking a first-class ticket to a more favorable destination in our next adventure. On the other hand, if our actions were unkind or harmful, well, let’s just say our next ride might be a bit bumpier.
The cycle of rebirth and transmigration is like a cosmic cycle of learning and growth. Each new life provides opportunities for us to learn valuable lessons, overcome challenges, and refine our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. It’s an ongoing journey of self-discovery, giving us chances to evolve and reach higher states of awareness and enlightenment.
So, if one can imagine oneself as a timeless traveler, one will be hopping from one train to another, with each journey building upon the experiences and choices of the last. It’s an ever-unfolding story, where the destination is liberation, freedom from the cycle of rebirth and transmigration (samsara) , and a union with the ultimate truth – moksha!
What is Ramayana?
Ramayana is an ancient Indian epic poem that tells the story of Prince Rama.
Ramayana is one of the two major Sanskrit epics of ancient India, the other being the Mahabharata.
Once upon a time, in the land of Bharata (modern day Indian Subcontinent), there was a great kingdom called Ayodhya.
Rama was born as the eldest son of King Dasharatha of Ayodhya and his queen Kausalya. He grew up to be a skilled warrior, and along with his brothers Lakshmana, Bharata, and Shatrughna, was trained in various arts and sciences by the sage Vashishta. Rama married Sita, the daughter of King Janaka of Mithila, after winning her hand in a competition.
After Rama’s father Dasharatha was compelled by the promise he made to his wife Kaikeyi, Rama was exiled to the forest for fourteen years.
Read the Ramayana – see several options
Valmiki’s Ramayana: The Great Indian Epic (Amar Chitra Katha) – Illustrated Comics
Sita and Lakshmana accompanied him during his exile. In the forest, Rama faced numerous challenges and fought several rakshasas, including Surpanakha, the sister of Ravana.
Ravana, the powerful Rakshasa (Demon like peoples) king of Lanka, heard about Sita’s beauty and resolved to make her his own.
He sent his rakshasa warrior Maricha to abduct Sita, who was alone at the time. Sita refused to go with Maricha and called out for Rama and Lakshmana, who were away at the time. Lakshmana later drew a protective line around the hut where Sita was staying, warning her not to cross it.
Read the Ramayana – see several options
Valmiki’s Ramayana: The Great Indian Epic (Amar Chitra Katha) – Illustrated Comics
After discovering that Sita was missing, Rama and Lakshmana set out to find her.
They met Hanuman, the vanara (half human-half ape) warrior god, who pledged to help them in their quest.
With Hanuman’s help, they eventually located Sita in Lanka.
Rama formed alliances with various Vanara armies, including the army of Sugriva, whom he helps defeat his brother Vali, and began to make preparations for an attack on Lanka.
To reach Lanka, Rama’s army had to cross the sea. They sought the help of the god of the sea, Varuna, but he refused to aid them.
Undeterred, Rama and his army built a bridge across the sea with the help of the vanara army. They fought and defeated several rakshasas along the way.
The war with Ravana’s army was long and bloody, with both sides suffering heavy losses. Ravana’s brother Vibhishana defected to Rama’s side, providing valuable intelligence about Ravana’s army.
Lakshmana is mortally wounded by Ravana’s powerful son but Hanuman saves the day by bringing a whole mountain full of potent herbs to help save him. (More Details)
Rama’s loyal friend and servant, Hanuman, was also instrumental in the war, destroying several rakshasa warriors and killing Ravana’s son.
Rama and his army emerged victorious in the war, and Ravana was killed by Rama himself.
Rama and Sita were reunited, and they returned to Ayodhya on the pushpaka vimana, a flying chariot.
Rama was crowned king of Ayodhya, and he ruled his kingdom with compassion and wisdom, ensuring that all his subjects were happy and prosperous.
Why is Ramayana important?
Throughout the story, Rama and his companions face many challenges and obstacles, but they always stay true to their values of duty, loyalty, and compassion. They show forgiveness and mercy, even to their enemies, and they never give up on their quest to do what is right.
Rama is known for his virtues, such as his devotion to duty, his unwavering loyalty to his family and friends, and his courage in the face of adversity.
The story of Ramayana is a timeless tale that teaches us about the importance of virtues such as courage, kindness, and perseverance. It shows us that even in the face of great challenges, we can overcome them if we stay true to our values and never give up on what is important to us.
How old is this story of Rama?
The story of Ramayana is believed to have been first told in ancient India over 2,000 years ago, and it has since become one of the most famous and beloved stories in Indian culture. The story has been retold in various forms, including plays, movies, and television shows.
Why are Rama and Sita important?
Ramayana is considered an epic is because of the depth and complexity of its characters. Rama, for example, is not just a heroic figure but also a son, a husband, and a friend, and the story explores the various roles he plays in his life. Similarly, Sita is not just a damsel in distress but also a strong and independent woman who faces her challenges with grace and courage.
The story of Ramayana also teaches important moral lessons that are relevant even today. For example, it emphasizes the importance of family values, respect for elders, and loyalty to one’s loved ones. It also highlights the consequences of greed, envy, and arrogance, and how they can lead to one’s downfall.
In addition, the story teaches the importance of perseverance, as Rama and his companions face numerous obstacles and challenges on their journey, but they never give up and continue to work towards their goal. It also emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and compassion, as Rama forgives Ravana for his actions and shows him mercy even after defeating him in battle.
Learn about Sree Rama Navami a festival in celebration of Rama.
What are some Indian movies made on Ramayana?
In southern India the telugu film industry has perhaps the most movies made based on the epics Ramayana and Mahabharata. These not only focused on just the overall stories but also made movies focusing on or around particular events within the stories. No other industry has explored it as much as they have.
Here is one of the movies based on the entire Ramayana epic:
Here is another which focuses on what happens after the story above.
On TV however, there were a couple of series made on the Ramayana and Mahabharata which ran for more than a year. These have been dubbed into many languages and are quite popular in most Southeast Asian countries decades after they aired.
Where else is Ramayana popular?
The Ramayana, has had a significant impact on the culture and traditions of many countries outside of India, particularly in Southeast Asia.
In these countries, the Ramayana has been adapted into local languages and incorporated into various art forms such as theater, dance, and visual arts.
The story of the Ramayana is also reflected in local customs and traditions, including festivals, religious rituals, and even political events.
Here are some examples of how the Ramayana is important in countries other than India:
Indonesia:
The Ramayana has been a fundamental influence on the culture of Indonesia. In Indonesia, the epic is known as the “Ramayana,” and the story has been adapted into Javanese and Balinese languages.
One of the most prominent examples of the Ramayana’s influence on Indonesian culture is the wayang kulit, a traditional form of shadow puppetry that is popular throughout Indonesia. The wayang kulit often features scenes from the Ramayana, and the characters of Rama, Sita, and Hanuman are particularly beloved by audiences. The performances often serve as a way of transmitting moral and ethical values to younger generations.
In addition to wayang kulit, the Ramayana has also influenced Indonesian dance, theater, and music. Many traditional Indonesian dances, such as the legong and the barong, feature characters and scenes from the Ramayana, while traditional Indonesian music often incorporates Indian instruments and styles.
The Ramayana has also had a significant impact on Indonesian literature, particularly in the epic poem the Ramayana Kakawin. This poem, which was written in the 9th century, tells the story of the Ramayana in Old Javanese and is considered one of the greatest works of Indonesian literature.
Cambodia:
The story of the Ramayana has been depicted in various forms of Cambodian art, including architecture, sculpture, and dance.
One of the most prominent examples of the Ramayana’s influence in Cambodia is the Angkor Wat temple complex, which was built in the early 12th century during the reign of King Suryavarman II.
The temple’s bas-reliefs depict scenes from the Ramayana, including the battle between Rama and Ravana, as well as various other mythological and historical scenes. These reliefs are considered some of the finest examples of Khmer art and are a testament to the enduring influence of the Ramayana on Cambodian culture.
In addition to Angkor Wat, the Ramayana’s influence can also be seen in other Cambodian temples and religious sites, such as the Banteay Srei temple, which is known for its intricate carvings depicting scenes from the Ramayana.
The goddess Sita, who is Rama’s wife, is believed by some Cambodians to be the ancestor of the Khmer people.
Thailand:
The Ramayana has had a profound influence on Thai culture, and its influence can be seen in various aspects of Thai society, including its literature, arts, and religion. The Thai version of the Ramayana is known as the Ramakien and is considered one of the most important literary works in Thai culture.
The influence of the Ramayana can also be seen in the names of Thai kings, as many Thai monarchs have taken names from characters in the epic. For example, King Rama I, who founded the Chakri Dynasty and established Bangkok as the capital of Thailand, took his name from the protagonist of the Ramayana, Rama. Similarly, his successors were named Rama II, Rama III, and so on, until the present-day King Rama X.
The capital city of Thailand, originally known as Krung Thep, was also named after a city mentioned in the Ramayana. The full name of Bangkok is Krung Thep Maha Nakhon, which means “The City of Angels, Great City of Immortals,” a name inspired by the city of Ayodhya in the Ramayana, which is described as the city of gods.
Ayutthaya, also known as Ayudhya, is a city located in central Thailand, about 80 kilometers north of Bangkok. The city was founded in 1350 and served as the capital of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya until it was sacked by the Burmese in 1767. The name Ayutthaya is derived from the Sanskrit term “Ayodhya,” which means “unconquerable” or “invincible.” In the Hindu epic, the Ramayana, Ayodhya is the birthplace of the hero Rama, and it is described as a prosperous and powerful city. The name was likely chosen for the city of Ayutthaya to symbolize its strength and resilience, and it served as a reminder of the city’s ancient heritage and cultural ties to India.
In addition to these examples, the Ramayana has had a significant impact on Thai art and culture. The epic has been adapted into various art forms, including Thai classical dance, music, literature, and drama. The story of the Ramayana is also often depicted in murals and sculptures in Thai temples and palaces.
Laos:
The Ramayana has influenced the Lao culture through local adaptations and translations of the epic. The story has been adapted into the Lao language, and various dance forms like the “Nang Sida” and “Nang Sangkhane” are based on the story of the Ramayana.
One of the most prominent examples of the Ramayana’s influence on Laotian culture is the Phra Lak Phra Lam, a Laotian version of the epic that tells the story of Rama and Sita in a uniquely Laotian context. The Phra Lak Phra Lam features a number of differences from the original Ramayana, including changes to the names of the characters and the addition of Laotian cultural elements.
In addition to the Phra Lak Phra Lam, the Ramayana has also influenced Laotian art and architecture. Many Laotian temples, particularly those in Luang Prabang, feature carvings and murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana, while traditional Laotian textiles often incorporate Ramayana motifs and designs.
The Ramayana has also played a significant role in Laotian religion, particularly in the practice of Theravada Buddhism. While Buddhism is the dominant religion in Laos, many Laotians also practice a form of animism that incorporates Hindu and Buddhist beliefs. The Ramayana serves as a central text in this syncretic tradition and is often used in religious rituals and ceremonies.
Finally, the Ramayana has also influenced Laotian literature, particularly in the form of the Jataka tales, a collection of stories that tell the past lives of the Buddha. Many of these stories draw on themes and characters from the Ramayana, illustrating the enduring influence of the epic on Laotian culture.
Myanmar:
The story of the Ramayana is also an important cultural influence in Myanmar.
One of the most prominent examples of the Ramayana’s influence on Myanmar culture is the Yama Zatdaw, a Myanmar version of the epic that tells the story of Rama and Sita in a uniquely Myanmar context.
The Yama Zatdaw features a number of differences from the original Ramayana, including changes to the names of the characters and the addition of Myanmar cultural elements.
In addition to the Yama Zatdaw, the Ramayana has also influenced Myanmar art and architecture. Many Myanmar temples, particularly those in Bagan, feature carvings and murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana, while traditional Myanmar textiles often incorporate Ramayana motifs and designs.
Malaysia:
The Ramayana has had a significant influence on Malaysian culture, particularly in the areas of religion and performing arts.
One of the most prominent examples of the Ramayana’s influence on Malaysian culture is the annual celebration of Deepavali, also known as Diwali, which commemorates the return of Rama and Sita to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana. This festival is celebrated by Malaysians of Indian descent as well as Malaysians of other ethnicities, and is a national public holiday.
The Ramayana has also influenced Malaysian performing arts, particularly the traditional dance forms of mak yong and wayang kulit.
Mak yong, which originated in Kelantan, features characters and themes from the Ramayana, while wayang kulit, a shadow puppet theatre, often includes scenes from the epic.
In addition, the Ramayana has played a significant role in Malaysian literature, particularly in the Malay-language Hikayat Seri Rama, a retelling of the Ramayana in a Malay context. The Hikayat Seri Rama, which was written in the 15th century, features changes to the names of the characters and the addition of Malay cultural elements.
Overall, the Ramayana has had a significant impact on the culture and traditions of many countries outside of India, particularly in Southeast Asia. The epic has been adapted into various art forms and has influenced local customs and traditions, including festivals, religious rituals, and political events.
Here is another post with more information about Ramayana in southeast Asian countries.
Top image – Source
Disclaimer:
This is NOT an exhaustive excerpt. It takes days or weeks to go through the entire volume of work for this epic.
Each character has origin stories in great detail and those details help the reader or listener to understand the complexity of that character and their ultimate role in the entire story.
The above is a heavily summarized version and by no means should it be considered as an accurate representation. It is simply an attempt to introduce the epic to someone who has no idea of what this is all about.
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.
Top Image Source
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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