Onam 2026: Malavika Mohanan Recalls Pookalam, Kasavu Saree & Kerala Sadhya Memories|FPJ Exclusive

Onam 2026: Actress Malavika Mohanan Reflects on Keralan Traditions

For many, Onam is a festival brimming with vibrant festivities, delectable cuisine, and cherished family memories. Those who have grown up outside of Kerala often celebrate the occasion as a means of reconnecting with their ancestral roots and preserving cultural customs. In an exclusive interview with The Free Press Journal, actress Malavika Mohanan shared her sentiments on the significance of the festival.

Born and raised in Mumbai, but deeply rooted in Kerala, Mohanan holds Onam in high regard. The actress eagerly anticipates celebrating the occasion with her family and cousins in Kerala each year. According to her, "Onam is not just a festival for me, but also a time to touch base with the traditions of my roots as a Keralite who was born and brought up in Mumbai. I always wait for this festival to celebrate with my family and cousins in Kerala."

For Mohanan, the festivities are deeply intertwined with cherished memories created with loved ones. She reminisced about the joy of crafting intricate pookalam designs, donning a traditional Kasavu saree, and indulging in the scrumptious Onam Sadhya. Beyond the rituals, food, and festive traditions, the actress believes that the true essence of Onam resides in spending quality time with family and staying connected to one's cultural heritage.

"What matters most to me is the essence of togetherness among family members, being surrounded by loved ones and valuing my cultural heritage that comes along with Onam celebrations," she concluded.