O J’s Corner

Malayali’s mind etched in Onam canvas

I have always been wondering how and why Malayalis got together to celebrate Onam this big way. Was this an occasion to please all children in the families? We tell stories to the kids who, with their inquisitive minds, probe further and seek further. The grandmas telling stories to the young ones reach a crescendo that children believe everthing the old ones reveal. It may be about some poltergeist, chathan, arukola, maadan and the like, all feisty spirits capable of bringing devastation. My son is still horribly afraid of snakes. He has not seen a snake in his life. Once we went to the zoo and he kept off the reptile section, for fear of the snakes. He is also afraid of darkness. No doubt, the fear has come from the grandma telling stories in high drama. All right, let us leave it like that.

Come to Onam. Today is Thiru Onam, not only in Kerala, but also in the minds of all Malayalis living the world over. Be they Hindus, Christians or Muslims, they have a particular paranoia about Onam. These days the folks have been queuing up before all sorts of outlets vending edible and non-edible items. The occasion is so inclusive that computer firms, electric appliances dealers, and all have special packages. I don’t’ know why book sellers have not offered a new deal.

In olden times, when many people did not have sumptuous meals on all days, it was the Onam time when the family members had delicious full meals all through the 10-day festival from Attham to Thiru Onam. The beauty of the festival is that even the new generation has taken a liking for the legendary event. It seems the ardour would only increase in course of time. So, three cheers for the annual visit of Mahabali who wants to see all his subjects in camaraderie.