Onam Basics
Which Malayalam month is Onam celebrated?
Chingam
Which district in kerala is popular for Pulikkali?
Thrissur.
The origins of Pulikkali trace back over 200 years to the reign of Maharaja Rama Varma Sakthan Thampuran, the then Maharaja of Cochin. He is believed to have introduced this folk art form, which was initially known as Pulikkettikali.
What is the first item served during the Onam sadya?
Pinch of salt
What Avatara of Vishnu is associated with Onam?
Vamana.
The 5th avatar of Lord vishnu
What is the name of the traditional Onam folk song sung during boat races?
Vanjipaattu
This traditional mask dance is especially prevalent in the districts of Thrissur, Palakkad, and parts of South Malabar
Kummatti Kali.
Themes of Kummattikali are drawn from Hindu epics like the Ramayana, the story of Shiva, and local folk tales. Notably, a character named Thamma, an old toothless woman who walks with a stick, leads the performance.
How many dishes are typically served for Onam sadya?
An authentic Onam Sadya typically features 26 to 28 dishes, though the number can vary depending on regional traditions and the host's preferences. Some elaborate feasts may include up to 64 dishes, showcasing the rich diversity of Kerala's vegetarian cuisine.
Who was the Grand father of Mahabali?
Prahlada.
Hiranyakashipu → Prahlada → Virochana → Mahabali
Virochana was the son of Prahlada and his wife Dhriti. He is known for his philosophical inquiry and leadership, as mentioned in texts like the Chandogya Upanishad, Puranas, and Mahabharata. Virochana is also recognized as the father of Mahabali, the virtuous Asura king celebrated during the Onam festival.
What do you call the last minute extreme Onam shopping?
Uthradom is the ninth and the penultimate day of the festival of Onam. It is considered as Onam eve and celebrated in a very big way. The importance of this day is last minute extreme shopping frenzy called as Uthradappachil and is considered the most auspicious day for purchase of fresh vegetables and fruits along with other provisions for the Thiruvonam day.
What is the presentation or offering of bananas, vegetables, or crops to a temple or deity during Onam as part of traditional offerings called?
Onakkazhcha
What is the significance of 'Inji thairu'?
In Thrikkakara Onam Sadya, this special dish called injithairu (a ginger-curd relish) is served in the Thiruvonam Sadya and from Uthradam (penultimate day) onward.
Inji Thayir holds cultural significance. It is often considered a dish of balance and harmony, reflecting the values of Kerala's culinary traditions.
At which temple is Onam believed to have historical inscriptions referencing its celebration as far back as 861 CE?
Thrikkakara Temple (Vamana Temple).
“Thiru‑kaal‑kara” meaning “place of the holy foot”
Name the ten days of Onam
The ten days are named Atham, Chithira, Chodhi, Vishakam, Anizham, Thriketta, Moolam, Pooradam, Uthradam, andThiruvonam.
Name 3 Onakalikal / traditional Onam games?
Talappanthukali (ball game), Ambeyyal (archery), and Kayyankali.
What is that one item made with green banana or plantain, coconut and green chilies?
Kaalan and/or Erissery
Where Is Uthrattathi Vallam Kali held?
The race takes place on the Pampa River near the Sree Parthasarathy Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, who is also known as Parthasarathy, the charioteer of Arjuna in the Mahabharata.
Pampa River, near the Sree Parthasarathy Temple, Aranmula, Pathanamthitta District, Kerala.
Why is Uthradam known as 'first onam'
Tradition holds that King Mahabali descends from the underworld (Patala) to Kerala on Uthradam.
He is believed to spend the next four days blessing his people and touring his former kingdom, culminating on Thiruvonam.
Which place is associated with the famous 'Athachamayam'?
Athachamayam is a grand cultural procession held annually in Thripunithura, near Kochi, Kerala, marking the commencement of the Onam festival.
Why is Sadya served in Banana leaves?
The banana leaf used for Sadya is not just for serving food, it has a scientific reason behind its usage! The leaf releases certain antioxidants that are beneficial to digestion. It’s why food served on it is said to taste better.
When was Onam officially declared the national festival of Kerala?
In 1961, during the tenure of Chief Minister Pattom Thanu Pillai, Onam was officially declared the national festival of Kerala.