In Kerela’s culture, festivals are not just about rituals and fasting; they carry deep impressions of nature, music, and art. Kerala’s famous festival Onam is a perfect example of this.

During this celebration, flowers hold a special importance in decorating homes and courtyards. The basket filled with yellow and orange marigold flowers in the picture represents the tradition of Pookkalam.

The Tradition of Pookkalam

On the occasion of Onam, decorating the courtyard with colorful flowers is an identity of the festival. This decoration is called Pookkalam. It is not just an ordinary decoration, but a symbol of welcoming King Mahabali. It is believed that during Onam, Mahabali comes to visit his people, and the flowers in the courtyard make him feel respected and loved.

Choice and Symbolism of Flowers

Flowers like marigold, lotus, butterfly pea, and other colorful blooms are usually used in Pookkalam. Yellow symbolizes prosperity and positivity, while orange represents energy and enthusiasm. These flower arrangements are not only visually appealing but also carry deep cultural meanings.

Social Togetherness

Making a Pookkalam is not just about decoration—it’s a community activity. Children, women, and elders of the household all join together to decorate the courtyard with flowers. In many places, competitions are held to see whose Pookkalam is the most beautiful. This tradition strengthens bonds and fosters a spirit of togetherness in villages and neighborhoods.

Onam and Nature

This tradition also reminds us of how deeply local festivals are connected with nature. Freshly picked flowers from fields, the fragrance of gardens, and natural colors together make the atmosphere joyful. Pookkalam not only decorates the house but also fills hearts with happiness.

Modern Form

Even though artificial decorations are easily available today, fresh flowers still hold the same importance during Onam. Modern families also try to decorate Pookkalam in the traditional way. The basket of marigolds in the picture makes us realize that traditions may adapt over time, but their essence never fades.

Conclusion

The festival of Onam is not only about feasts and celebrations—it is a way of uniting nature, tradition, and community. These colorful flower arrangements teach us that true beauty lies in living together in harmony and preserving traditions. Each flower in the Pookkalam carries the spirit of love, togetherness, and the real identity of celebration.