From vibrant pookkalams to traditional feasts, Keralites around the globe celebrate Thiruvonam

On August 26, 2026, Malayalis across the globe celebrated Thiruvonam, the final day of the 10-day Onam festivities that began on Atham in the Malayalam calendar. Thiruvonam, synonymous with vibrant pookkalams (flower carpets), lavish sadyas, traditional attire, and games, brought Malayalees together to partake in joyous reunions with their loved ones.

Families reunited in Kerala, known as "God's Own Country," shared in the festivities, while those separated by distance endeavored to recreate the spirit of Onam in their own homes, complete with pookkalam, Onasadya, songs, and dance.

Despite the rain in several parts of the state, temples, including the famous Guruvayur Sreekrishna temple, drew large crowds dressed in traditional attire. Many homes commenced preparations for the Onam feast early, while others opted for convenient alternatives like sadyas delivered by hotels and caterers. Onasadya, a grand meal featuring dishes such as olan, erisseri, kaalan, sambar, avial, thoran, pachadi, pulinji, inji thayir, pickle, pappadom, and payasam, was served on plantain leaves to provide an authentic touch.

Communities, including residents' associations and clubs, organized joint celebrations featuring events like vadamvali, uriyadi, and Onapattu for both young and old participants. Children and youngsters competed to create the most impressive pookkalams in their courtyards and displayed their creations to family and friends.

Kerala Tourism's week-long Onam celebrations, featuring illuminations and events at various venues across the state capital, added to the festivities. Notable figures, including President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Keralam Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, all extended Onam greetings to citizens. As the celebrations continued, the traditions remained steadfast, evoking a sense of unity and joy among Malayalis around the world.