Pookalam

One of the most vibrant aspects of Onam celebrations is the creation of Pookkalam, a floral design that symbolizes prosperity and joy. Starting on the day of Atham, Malayali households across Kerala prepare Pookkalams to welcome King Mahabali. Traditionally, only locally available flowers were used to make these intricate designs.

Pookkalam is laid in the front yard, beginning from the day of Anizham. The ground is cleaned, and an earthen floor is prepared and smeared with cow dung. On Atham, a simple Pookkalam is made using the 'Thumba' flower, followed by white flowers on Chithira. Each day, the size of the Pookkalam increases, and yellow flowers like 'Mukkutti' and 'Kolambi' are added. Bright flowers, such as hibiscus, are placed from the day of Chothi onward. By Moolam, the Pookkalam becomes square-shaped, known as 'Moolakkalam.'