Onam 2023: How To Decorate Your Home

Onam is a traditional harvest festival celebrated with great enthusiasm in the state of Kerala, India. It marks the homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali and is a time for joyous celebrations and feasting.

Decorating homes during Onam adds to the festive spirit and creates an inviting atmosphere for family and friends. The vibrant colors, intricate designs, and traditional motifs used in decorations reflect the rich cultural heritage of Kerala. Here is a list of home decor ideas that will come in handy in Onam. Check out the list!

Colorful decorations during Onam festival

1. Pookalam: Floral Rangoli Designs

"Pookalam" is a beautiful floral carpet made using fresh flowers. It is created by arranging colorful petals in intricate patterns on the floor, typically near the entrance of homes. Pookalams are believed to welcome King Mahabali's spirit into every household.

2. Torans: Doorway Decorations

Torans or decorative hangings are commonly used to adorn doorways during Onam. They are usually made from coconut leaves or banana stems intricately woven together with flowers and other natural materials. Torans symbolize prosperity and bring good luck.

3. Fresh Flowers, Garlands

Apart from using flowers for Pookalams, you can add fresh flower arrangements in the vases, and walls around your home to enhance the festive atmosphere.

4. Traditional Furniture

You can add traditional Kerala-style furniture and furnishings to your home like wooden swings (oonjal) and wooden carved chairs to create a festive atmosphere on this auspicious day.

5. Lighting Up Homes with Diyas

To enhance the festive atmosphere, lighting diyas or oil lamps inside and outside homes is customary during Onam. These beautifully lit diyas symbolize positivity, dispel darkness, and create a warm glow that complements other decorations.

6. Wall Hangings And Tapestries

You can add colorful wall hangings or tapestries that depict Kerala's culture, history, and folklore. You can add fresh flowers while decorating your home as well to add a festive look.

7. Traditional Showpieces, Accessories

Traditional accessories and showpieces from Kerala like brass lamps, bells, and ethnic-style showpieces. Also, you can display artifacts.

8. Banana Leaves

You can use fresh banana leaves as placemats or serve meals and also decorate your home. They are an essential part of this festival and add a natural and cultural touch to your dining area.