Onam, the vibrant harvest festival of Kerala, is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), especially those hailing from Kerala, Onam brings back fond memories of their homeland, filled with rich traditions, delicious food, and cultural festivities. To keep the spirit of Onam alive while being away from home, NRIs often seek to recreate the festive ambiance in their current locations. Here's a guide to the essential items you can buy from India to make your Onam celebrations special, no matter where you are.
1. Traditional Attire: Kerala Kasavu and Mundu
The quintessential Kerala saree, known as Kerala Kasavu, and the traditional Mundu for men are integral to the Onam celebrations. The elegant white and gold-bordered Kasavu sarees and Mundus are perfect for embodying the festive spirit. These traditional garments not only add a touch of authenticity to your celebrations but also connect you with your cultural roots. Make sure to shop for authentic handwoven Kasavu sarees and Mundus from trusted Kerala artisans for a true festive feel.
2. Pookalam Essentials
Pookalam, the floral carpet, is one of the most beautiful traditions of Onam. Creating intricate designs with fresh flowers is a cherished activity that brings families together. For NRIs, procuring a variety of fresh flowers might be challenging, but fear not! Many online stores now offer Pookalam kits with dried or artificial flowers that are easy to arrange and last longer. These kits are a great alternative and allow you to partake in this colorful tradition without any hassle.
3. Onam Sadya Ingredients
The Onam Sadya, a grand vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf, is the heart of Onam celebrations. Preparing a traditional Sadya can be daunting, especially when living abroad. To help, many Indian stores and online shops offer Sadya kits that include pre-packaged ingredients and spices required for the numerous dishes that make up this meal. Look for essentials like Kerala rice, sambar powder, pickles, banana chips, and pappadam. With these ingredients on hand, you can enjoy a taste of home even when you're miles away.
4. Nilavilakku (Traditional Oil Lamp)
The Nilavilakku, a traditional oil lamp, holds a significant place in Kerala's cultural and religious practices. Lighting the Nilavilakku during Onam is considered auspicious and adds a serene ambiance to your celebrations. These lamps, often made of brass, are available in various sizes and designs. Buying a Nilavilakku from India not only enhances your festive decor but also serves as a beautiful reminder of your cultural heritage.
5. Traditional Decorations: Thoranam and Uruli
To recreate the festive atmosphere of Onam at home, consider traditional Kerala decorations like Thoranam (decorative hanging made of coconut leaves) and Uruli (a brass vessel). Thoranam adds an authentic touch to your home entrance, while an Uruli filled with water and adorned with floating flowers can serve as a stunning centerpiece. These decorations are now widely available in Indian online stores and can be shipped internationally, making it easier for NRIs to celebrate in style.
6. Onakkodi: New Clothes for Loved Ones
Onakkodi, the tradition of gifting new clothes to family and friends during Onam, symbolizes prosperity and goodwill. Sending Onakkodi to your loved ones back in India or gifting yourself and your family with traditional outfits is a wonderful way to maintain this tradition. Many online retailers in India offer a wide range of ethnic wear, making it convenient to shop for Onakkodi from anywhere in the world.
7. Ayurvedic Essentials and Herbal Products
Kerala is renowned for its Ayurvedic traditions, and Onam is an excellent time to indulge in some wellness practices. Ayurvedic essentials such as oils, herbs, and skincare products make for great buys during Onam. These products not only enhance your well-being but also make thoughtful gifts for friends and family who appreciate natural and holistic remedies.
Conclusion
Celebrating Onam as an NRI can be a wonderful way to stay connected with your roots and share the joy of this vibrant festival with your new community. By bringing these Onam essentials from India into your home, you can create an authentic and memorable festive experience. So, go ahead and start shopping for these essentials to make your Onam celebrations away from home truly special!
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Happy Onam!
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