Members of the Indian Diaspora in Sri Lanka are celebrating Thiru Onam today. The celebration of the harvest festival of Kerala, which symbolises prosperity, secularism and harmony was marked by traditional Pookkalam and Onam Sadya at several homes.
In addition, the traditional Kasavu sarees and Mundu give the celebrations a traditional appeal. The festival marks the homecoming of the legendary ruler, King Mahabali and showcases the unique customs, traditions and cuisine of the state.
In Sri Lanka, the celebration of Onam is nothing compared with Kerala, because the Onam is majorly celebrated by the Tamil community. The traditional differences like sadhya, the vegetarian feast is simplified with fewer dishes, the Pookalam decorations are more modest, and cultural performances are not elaborate as in Kerala. But, still the festival is conducted with the essence of family gatherings and communities to share the meals and the joy of Onam.
In conclusion, Onam is a celebration of harvest and mythological stories. Apart from the tradition, Onam is celebrated across the border. Whether it is South Indian communities or the Sri Lankan diaspora, it always reflects the rich culture and traditional practice of Onam celebration. The celebration of Onam shows the cultural richness with its unique pooja essentials and specific vibrant flowers for Pookalam. The festival is filled with unique sweets, snacks, fruits and vegetables, along with the iconic feast Onam Sadhya, which is a selected vegetable dish to represent the Onam festival.
The celebration might vary due to cultural differences in other countries, but still we are trying to get the spirit of our own cultural celebration wherever we are. For the people who are residing in the UK, they can purchase their Onam festival products at Budget Mart UK to celebrate the Onam in their own traditional way. So, enjoy this Onam with your families and also make the opportunity for other communities to feel and explore the rich culture of Kerala.