For Kishore Pavithran, a 58-year-old Malayalee who first set foot in the UAE in September 1991, this Onam is more than just a festival; it represents 34 years of cherished memories, resilience, and a sense of belonging.
From his early days as a young bachelor discovering a new land to now raising a family and leading his community, Kishore has seen the UAE and the Malayalee diaspora grow, transforming intimate gatherings into grand, heartwarming celebrations.
“In those days, Onam (the harvest festival) in the UAE was simple, intimate, and deeply personal,” Kishore shared with Khaleej Times. “We would start our day early, gather flowers from nearby bushes, and create pookalam (floral carpets) in front of our apartments. A few friends, mostly bachelors or young families, would prepare the sadya (a traditional Kerala meal) in our kitchens.”
Stay informed with the latest updates. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
“Sometimes, we’d gather in a park or a friend’s flat, sitting cross-legged on banana leaves spread on the floor, sharing food, laughter, and stories. It felt like home, even when miles away,” he added.
Photo: KT File
Photo: KT File
In those early years, Kishore recalled, celebrations were modest, often held at social centers or small community gatherings. Floral decoration contests, traditional dance performances like Thiruvathira kali, and renditions of Onappattu (traditional songs) brought the community closer.
Despite limited communication and few venues, the joy and camaraderie were immense.
Over time, Onam celebrations have expanded along with the community. With mobile phones, social media, and growing Malayalee networks, regional associations, alumni groups, and cultural organizations now host their own vibrant Onam festivals.
Kishore Pavithran with his wife Maya
Heart of the celebration
The Onam sadya remains the heart of the celebration. It symbolizes home, love, and unity, featuring 20 to 30 traditional curries, pickles, and sweets served on banana leaves, bringing people together.
“With so many groups wanting to host sadya on weekends, finding a venue became a challenge,” Kishore noted. “Onam in the UAE now stretches from the festival day to December, with at least one venue hosting celebrations every weekend.”
Over the years, the UAE has become a home away from home for Malayalees, providing spaces and support for cultural celebrations like Onam.
Photo: KT File
The country’s openness allows traditions to thrive, connecting people to their roots and each other. This nurturing environment ensures that Onam is not just remembered but deeply felt every year.
The festivities have grown in scale and spectacle. “Today, celebrities from India and beyond are invited to enhance the celebrations. It’s become a cultural extravaganza uniting generations,” said Kishore.
Life’s milestones
For Kishore, Onam also marks life’s milestones. As a bachelor, it was about bonding with friends over a lovingly prepared meal. “We celebrated in our apartments with 7 to 10 friends, cooking the various curries for the sadya ourselves,” he recalled.
As a husband and father, it became about dressing his children in kasavu mundu (traditional attire) and watching them perform at cultural centers. “Later, I joined the Indian Social and Cultural Centre, where Onam is celebrated on a grand scale, with lunch for over 4,000 people and numerous cultural programs over several days. I am proud to be among the organizing volunteers,” he added.
Kishore and Maya at the Onam 2024 celebration
Even attire traditions have evolved. “It used to be difficult to find traditional Kerala outfits here. A kasavu mundu was rare and costly. Today, they’re easily available, with families even pre-ordering matching designs for group celebrations. It’s heartwarming to see nearly every Malayalee dressed traditionally on Onam day,” noted Kishore.
Onam in the UAE has become more than a cultural celebration; it bridges heritage and modernity. Kishore said: “Seeing children make floral carpets with flowers ordered online or families booking restaurant Sadyas via apps shows how much has changed. But the essence remains the same: Onam is about togetherness and feeling at home, even when far away.”
“Traditions evolve, but the spirit remains. For Malayalees in the UAE, Onam has grown from small flats and picnic mats to grand halls and social centers, yet it still carries the joy we felt 34 years ago.”
