Last Friday, many who I know celebrated Onam. The harvest festival of the state of Kerala that is celebrated by all belonging to the state regardless of caste, community, religion or any other demographics.
It was in 2014 when I learnt a little about Onam and then sought permission from my friend LP to share her Pookalams on this blog. I still can’t believe that we have maintained this tradition over the a last 10 years now and this year is the 11th.
When I asked her why she makes Pookalams on all the days leading upto Onam, she mentioned that she wanted her son A and now also daughter V to learn about their rich cultural background. And that rationale has stayed with me. My parents in their small way also did the same. Made my brother C and I know of festivals and rituals in the way that we respect and follow today. Not in a rigid way but our own happy and flexible way.
So here are LP’s pookalams from this year and here is wishing all those who celebrate Onam, a very happy Onam Ashamsakal!










This year with star signs overlapping on two days, we got not 10 but 11 of these gorgeous Pookalams. So until next year – here is wishing you all happy festivities. The season of festivals in India has begun. So eat well, spend time the way you love and make memories your own way.

Simple and beautiful designs!! 🙂
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Yes! Very pretty 😍
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ces pokalams sont magnifiques et si colorés ! Et pour répondre à ta question, oui c’est un arbre en bretagne près d’une petite écluse à proximité d’un canal. l’endroit s’appelle Fégréac et tu peix le trouver sur google earth
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Thank you so much! I like to share the location of trees so readers can also see trees from far and near.
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It’s so interesting to read about the festival Onam and Pookalams. Your friend is really creative there and the Pookalams she made are so vibrant and full of life. Each one beautiful in its own right, and also reminding of tradition. These are lovely photos of your friends’ creations. I hope you are doing well, Parul 🙂
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Good to hear from you Mabel. I’m sailing through the ebs and troughs of life. How have you been?
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I have been alright. Living life as it comes. Looking forward to summer over here in Australia. Wishing you well, Parul 😊
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