Language/Malayalam/Culture/Festivals-of-Kerala
Festivals create a great sense of community and bring people together. It is an opportunity to celebrate, have fun, and create memories with family and friends. In Kerala, there are numerous festivals throughout the year that are unique in their own way. These festivals are an important part of the culture and traditions of Kerala. In this lesson, you will learn about some of the most popular festivals in Kerala and how they are celebrated.
Consider broadening your understanding by checking out these related lessons: The Land of Kerala & Golden Era of Malayalam Cinema.
Onam
Onam is the biggest and most important festival in Kerala. It is celebrated during the Malayalam month of Chingam, which falls between August and September. The festival is celebrated to commemorate the homecoming of King Mahabali, who is believed to visit Kerala during this time. The festival lasts for ten days, and each day has its own significance. Onam is known for its colorful floral decorations, boat races, and traditional dances. It is a time for families to come together, enjoy feasts, and celebrate.
Vishu
Vishu is celebrated as the Malayalam New Year and is usually observed on the 14th of April. It is believed that on this day, Lord Krishna killed the demon Narakasura. The highlight of Vishu is the "Vishukkani", which means "the first thing seen on Vishu morning". It is a collection of auspicious items such as rice, fruits, vegetables, flowers, coins, and a holy book, arranged in a vessel. The Vishukkani is prepared by the head of the family and seen by the other members first thing in the morning.
Thrissur Pooram
Thrissur Pooram is one of the most spectacular temple festivals in Kerala, celebrated in the town of Thrissur. The festival is held in honor of Lord Vadakkunnathan, the presiding deity of the Vadakkunnathan temple. The festival is known for its magnificent display of thirty elephants decorated with vibrant colors and dazzling parasols. The main attractions of the festival are the processions of caparisoned elephants, rhythmic movements by hundreds of percussionists, and mesmerizing fireworks. Thrissur Pooram usually takes place in April or May.
Nehru Trophy Boat Race
The Nehru Trophy Boat Race is a popular boat race held in the Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha, Kerala. It is named after the first Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru, who visited Kerala in 1952. The boat race is held on the second Saturday of August every year and is a major tourist attraction. The boat race features snake boats, which are long and narrow boats that can seat up to 100 rowers. The boats are decorated in colorful patterns and designs, and the race is a thrilling experience to watch.
Eid al-Fitr
Eid al-Fitr, also known as the "Festival of Breaking the Fast," is celebrated by Muslims all over the world. In Kerala, this festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and the entire community comes together to celebrate. It marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. On this day, Muslims offer special prayers and wear new clothes. They also prepare and share sweets and savory dishes with family and friends.
Christmas
Christmas is celebrated by the Christian community in Kerala with great elegance and grandeur. Most of the churches are beautifully decorated, and the celebrations usually begin on Christmas Eve with midnight mass. Christmas carols are sung, gifts are exchanged, and special feasts are prepared. The highlight of Christmas celebrations in Kerala is the Cochin Carnival, which starts on Christmas Day and ends on New Year's Day.
Overall, the festivals of Kerala are a beautiful celebration of culture and traditions. They bring people together and create a sense of community, belonging, and joy. As you continue learning Malayalam, you will find that understanding these festivals and their significance is important in building relationships and connecting with the community.
Other Lessons
- Malayalam Music
- Cuisine and Food Traditions
- Famous Malayalam Writers and Works
- Arts and Performances
- Golden Era of Malayalam Cinema
- The Land of Kerala