Categories: Health

Onam 2024 Dates, What Is Sadhya And How The Traditional Feast Benefits Your Health

Onam, a vibrant festival celebrated in Kerala, India, is synonymous with the grand feast known as Onam Sadhya. It is a ten-day celebration that marks the homecoming of King Mahabali, a mythical ruler whose reign was considered the golden age of Kerala. The festival is also associated with the harvest of rice, a staple crop in the region. Onam is a vibrant and joyous festival that captures the essence of Kerala’s culture. It is a time for family, friends, and community to come together and celebrate the rich heritage of the state.

Also ReadOnam Special: 5 Delicious Sabudana (Tapioca) Dishes from South India

Onam 2024 Dates: When Is Onam 2024?

This year, Onam 2024 starts on Friday, September 6, 2024, and will culminate on Sunday, September 15, 2024. 

Onam 2024: Rituals And Traditions

  • Pookalam: One of the most iconic symbols of Onam is the pookalam, a floral carpet created using colourful flowers. It is believed to attract King Mahabali back to Earth.
  • Boat Races: The Vallamkali, or snake boat races, are a thrilling spectacle during Onam. Teams of rowers compete in long, decorated boats on the backwaters of Kerala.
  • Puja: Devotees offer prayers and perform pujas to various deities during the festival.
  • Onakkodi: People wear new clothes, known as Onakkodi, to celebrate the occasion.
  • Gift Exchange: It is customary to exchange gifts with friends and family during Onam.
  • Sadhya: A grand vegetarian feast is served on Onam day, typically consisting of over 26-28 dishes. It includes rice, sambar, rasam, various curries, pickles, and a variety of sweets.

What Is Onam Sadhya? What Is Its Significance?

Onam Sadhya is more than just a meal; it’s a cultural celebration that brings families and communities together. The feast is believed to honour King Mahabali, a mythical ruler whose reign was considered the golden age of Kerala. The 10-day Onam festival culminates on Thiruvonam, when the Sadhya is traditionally served on a banana leaf. This elaborate vegetarian meal consists of usually 26-28 dishes, which can go up to as many as 64 dishes. Sadhya is a culinary masterpiece that showcases the rich flavours and traditions of Kerala.

Also Read: Explore Indian Culture: 5 Types Of Leaves Used For Serving Traditional Food

How Is Onam Sadhya Made? It Consists Of…

Onam Sadhya is a harmonious blend of sweet, savoury, and tangy flavours. The meal typically includes:

  • Rice: A variety of rice, such as Matta rice or red rice, forms the base of the Sadhya.
  • Sambar: A lentil-based curry with a tangy flavour, often made with vegetables and spices.
  • Rasam: A thin, spicy soup made with tamarind, tomato, and spices.
  • Pachadi: A variety of vegetable-based dishes, including aviyal (mixed vegetable curry), olan (pumpkin and coconut stew), and thoran (stir-fried vegetables).
  • Curries: A variety of curries, such as mezhukkupuratti (stir-fried vegetables) and kalan (a spicy curry), add depth and complexity to the meal.
  • Pickles: A variety of pickles, including mango pickle, lime pickle, and chilli pickle, add a tangy flavour to the Sadhya.
  • Sweets: The Sadhya concludes with a delightful array of sweets, such as payasam (rice pudding), pradhaman (jaggery-based dessert), and palada pradhaman (sweet rice pudding).

Also Read4 Traditional Desserts From Kerala You Can Prepare At Home This Onam

Health Benefits Of Onam Sadhya

Onam Sadhya is not just a delicious feast but also a nutritious one. The variety of dishes ensures a balanced intake of carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Some of the key health benefits of Onam Sadhya include:

  • Rich in Fibre: The abundance of vegetables and fibre-rich foods aids digestion and promotes satiety.
  • Balanced Nutrients: The Sadhya offers a well-rounded meal with a diverse range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
  • Healthy Fats: Coconut oil and ghee, used in many Sadhya dishes, provide healthy fats that support overall health.
  • Plant-Based Proteins: The various vegetable curries and lentils offer a good source of plant-based protein.
  • Antioxidant Power: The spices and herbs used in Sadhya dishes are known for their antioxidant properties, which help protect against cellular damage.

So enjoy the delicious Sadhya and have a joyous Onam Sadhya 2024!
 

About Neha GroverLove for reading roused her writing instincts. Neha is guilty of having a deep-set fixation with anything caffeinated. When she is not pouring out her nest of thoughts onto the screen, you can see her reading while sipping on coffee.

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