Elsa Angel Rose
Relishing Sadya, dressed in traditional Kasavu sarees or mundum-neriyathum, and playing Thiruvathira and Pulikali to commemorate the spirit of love, peace, and prosperity, Malayalis celebrate Thiruvonam today.
Many Malayalis have made Goa their home for over 20 years, while others are here for shorter stays. But regardless of where they are, the community spirit shines through—bringing Kerala’s culture to Goa and sharing it with everyone. Goans and other non-Malayali communities also join in the festivities, eager to relish the extravagant feast and spread messages of peace and prosperity.
Even though they miss the celebrations back home with family and friends, Malayalis in Goa have created a strong sense of family and community here. The celebrations feature elegant attire—settum mundum or kasavu sarees for women, and mundu with kurta or shirt for men. Children too join in, dressed in traditional Kerala wear. The highlight remains the sumptuous Sadya, a vegetarian feast of 20–24 dishes, including an array of desserts.
Venugopal Meempat, President of Kerala Cultural Association (KCA), Vasco da Gama, said, “The festival inspires unity, camaraderie, and a sense of belonging. It’s an opportunity to recreate Kerala’s cultural heritage, even far away from home.” Cultural events include Kaikottikali, Pookalam competitions, and traditional music and dance, enjoyed equally by Malayalis and Goans.
While Goa is now home for many Malayalis, nostalgia for Kerala’s Onam remains. “We cherished collecting flowers for Pookalam, playing Oonjal Kali, and helping prepare Sadya back home,” recalled Subash Nair, an entrepreneur settled in Vasco for 25 years. But work and school schedules make it difficult to travel back during Onam, so Malayalis adapt traditions here, blending Kerala’s culture with Goan warmth.
Goa is home to an estimated 40,000–50,000 Malayalis, playing a key role in the state’s growth. FAGMA (Federation of All Goa Malayali Associations), the apex body, has been organizing Onam celebrations for 25 years. This year, about 800 people participated in its central celebration held on August 24, ahead of Thiruvonam (Sept 5, 2025).
From Panjim to Vasco, Ponda, Margao, Bicholim, Calangute, and beyond, 13 Malayali organizations host their own Onam celebrations after the FAGMA event. Goans, too, take part enthusiastically, especially in Pookalam competitions and enjoying the grand Sadya. “Goans love the celebrations, and kids from local schools always join in,” said Raju Alex, Secretary of Kairali Cultural Association, Calangute. “This year’s highlight was a Shingari Melam with violin fusion.”
Though far from Kerala, Malayalis in Goa ensure Onam is celebrated with grandeur, togetherness, and love. With Sadya aromas in the air, Kaikottikali melodies, and vibrant Pookalams, the festival has truly found a second home in Goa.