Onam is a significant harvest festival in Kerala that commemorates the homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali. It is a time of festivities, cultural performances, and the sharing of love and joy. The festival spans ten days and is marked by various cultural activities, including boat races, traditional dance performances, and grand feasts. It is a time when families come together to celebrate their cultural heritage and create lasting memories. One of the significant aspects of Onam is the exchange of gifts among family members, friends, and loved ones. Choosing the right gift can be a delightful and thoughtful gesture that strengthens relationships and spreads happiness. We  will explore a variety of gifts that can be given during Onam to make the occasion truly memorable.

Traditional Onam Gifts

During Onam, traditional gifts hold a special place in the hearts of people. These gifts reflect the rich cultural heritage of Kerala and are deeply cherished. Some popular traditional Onam gifts include:

Kasavu Sarees: Kasavu sarees are traditional Kerala sarees made with white cotton fabric and golden zari borders. They are elegant and symbolize purity and grace.

Mundu and Veshti: Mundu and veshti are traditional garments worn by men in Kerala. Mundu is a white cotton dhoti, while veshti is a similar attire with a golden border. These garments are highly valued and make for a meaningful gift.

Exquisite Jewelry: Jewelry is always a cherished gift, and during Onam, it holds a special significance. Gold ornaments, especially necklaces, earrings, and bangles, are popular choices for gifting. They are considered auspicious and add a touch of elegance to the festive attire.

Aranmula Kannadi: Aranmula Kannadi, also known as the Aranmula metal mirror, is a unique and revered craft from the village of Aranmula in Kerala. These mirrors are handcrafted using a secret metal alloy and polished to perfection by skilled artisans. Legend has it that the craftsmen who create these mirrors have been blessed with divine powers. Aranmula Kannadi is not just a mirror; it is believed to bring prosperity, luck, and ward off negative energy. The intricate designs and timeless beauty of these mirrors make them a coveted souvenir for art enthusiasts and collectors alike. Also, we can customize it into desired models or can engrave your name/friends name/company name when you give it as a gift to someone.

Handwoven Fabrics and Apparel: Kerala is known for its traditional handwoven fabrics like Kasavu and Kancheepuram silk. Gifting exquisite handwoven sarees, dhotis, or shawls made from these fabrics is a wonderful way to honor the craftsmanship and support local artisans.

Delicious Sweets and Snacks: No festival in India is complete without delectable sweets and snacks. During Onam, homemade delicacies like Payasam (a sweet rice pudding), Unniyappam (rice and jaggery fritters), Banana Chips, and Achappam (rose cookies) are prepared with love and shared as gifts. These traditional treats are sure to delight the taste buds of the recipient.

Home Decor and Artifacts: Home decor items and artifacts make excellent gifts during Onam. Intricately carved wooden furniture, brass lamps, wall hangings depicting traditional art forms, and paintings inspired by Kerala's rich culture are thoughtful gifts that can adorn the recipient's home and create a festive ambiance.

Nettipattam: Nettipattam or the elephant caparison is a great gift to present at Onam. It is considered as a symbol of prosperity in Kerala.

Kathakali Head or Kathakali Statues: The kathakali is the traditional art form of kerala and a model representing the same will be a great gift for onam.

Ayurvedic Wellness Products: Kerala is renowned for its ancient Ayurvedic practices. Gifting Ayurvedic wellness products such as essential oils, herbal soaps, and medicinal herbs can promote health and well-being. These natural products are deeply rooted in Kerala's heritage and offer a holistic approach to wellness.

Eco-friendly Gifts: In recent times, the importance of eco-friendly gifts has gained prominence. Onam presents an opportunity to gift eco-friendly products like bamboo crafts, organic cotton clothing, jute bags, or reusable kitchenware. These gifts not only show care for the environment but also support sustainable practices.

Onam Gift Hampers: Curated gift hampers that combine multiple items can be a delightful surprise for the recipient. A hamper could include a mix of traditional snacks, a small lamp or diya, a Laksmi vilakku, thirudada/thiru udayada etc.

Personalized Gifts: Personalized gifts add a unique touch to the celebrations. Customized photo frames, engraved wooden plaques, or monogrammed accessories make for memorable presents. Personalization shows thoughtfulness and the effort put into choosing a gift specifically for the recipient.

Musical Instruments: Kerala has a rich musical heritage, and gifting musical instruments like the Veena, Mridangam, or Flute can be a wonderful gesture for someone passionate about music. These instruments not only reflect the cultural significance of Kerala but also inspire creativity and artistic expression.

Onam is a time of celebration, joy, and togetherness. By choosing the right gift, we can make the occasion even more special for our loved ones. Whether it's traditional items, delicious treats, wellness products, or personalized presents, the gesture of giving carries a message of love and affection. Let us embrace the spirit of Onam and spread happiness through thoughtful gifts.