Onam, Kerala’s grand harvest festival, is a time for celebration, devotion, and joy. One of the key aspects of this festival is decorating homes to reflect the spirit of prosperity and tradition. Malayalees worldwide transform their homes with vibrant decorations, making them welcoming for family, friends, and the spirit of King Mahabali, who is believed to visit Kerala during Onam.
If you’re looking for inspiration on how to adorn your home for Onam, here are some tips and ideas to make your space festive, traditional, and beautiful using Kerala-based products and handicrafts.
1. Create an Athappookkalam (Floral Rangoli)
- What it is: An essential part of Onam decoration, Athappookkalam is a colorful and intricate floral arrangement made on the floor at the entrance or central area of the house. Fresh flowers of various colors are used to create patterns that symbolize prosperity and welcome.
- How to create: Start with a clean surface, sketch a basic circular or star-shaped pattern, and fill it with vibrant petals from flowers like marigold, hibiscus, jasmine, and more. You can also incorporate rice powder to add contrast.
2. Use Nettipattams for a Traditional Touch
- What they are: Nettipattams are the ornamental headgear placed on elephants during Kerala’s temple festivals. They are intricately designed with gold and red embellishments, symbolizing grandeur and festivity.
- How to decorate: Hang Nettipattams on your walls or near doorways as a symbol of prosperity and festivity. These decorative pieces add an authentic Kerala touch to your home. Explore Lalitam Crafts for a wide range of Nettipattams perfect for home decor during Onam.
3. Adorn Your Living Space with Kathakali Statues
- What they are: Kathakali is a traditional dance form of Kerala, known for its vibrant costumes and dramatic facial expressions. Kathakali statues capture the essence of this art form.
- How to decorate: Place Kathakali statues in your living room or entrance area to highlight Kerala’s cultural heritage. These statues not only add character to your decor but also symbolize the artistic richness of the state. Check out the intricate Kathakali statues available at Lalitam Crafts to bring home a piece of Kerala’s cultural beauty.
4. Display Elephant Statues for a Festive Look
- What they are: Elephants hold a special place in Kerala’s temple festivals, symbolizing strength and royalty. Handcrafted elephant statues, adorned with jewels and ornate designs, are popular decor items during Onam.
- How to decorate: Position these statues on tables, near the entryway, or as part of your living room decor to invoke the grandeur of Kerala’s famous festivals. Elephant statues from Lalitam Crafts are perfect for giving your home an elegant yet festive appeal.
5. Add Traditional Kerala Lamps (Nilavilakku)
- What they are: The Nilavilakku is a traditional brass oil lamp that is commonly used in Kerala homes during festivals and religious ceremonies. It symbolizes purity and is often lit during Onam to invite blessings and prosperity.
- How to decorate: Place a Nilavilakku in your living room or prayer area and light it during the Onam celebrations. The warm glow of the lamp will fill your home with a spiritual ambiance and traditional charm.
6. Enhance Your Home with Kerala Handicrafts
- Why they are important: Kerala’s rich cultural heritage is best showcased through its handcrafted products. Decorate your home with wooden carvings, brass artifacts, and traditional murals that reflect Kerala’s craftsmanship.
- How to decorate: Explore a wide range of Kerala handicrafts from Lalitam Crafts, including coir products, wooden elephants, and painted murals, to bring an artistic touch to your home this Onam.
7. Use Traditional Kerala Fabric for Decor
- What it is: Kerala’s traditional kasavu fabric, known for its gold borders, is a beautiful way to incorporate local textiles into your Onam decor.
- How to decorate: Use kasavu table runners, cushions, or curtains to add a touch of elegance to your home. The gold-trimmed fabric symbolizes prosperity and festivity, making it perfect for Onam celebrations.
8. Add Fresh Greenery
- What it is: Since Onam is a harvest festival, greenery and nature play an important role in the decorations.
- How to decorate: Incorporate fresh plants and banana leaves as part of your decor. Banana leaves can be used on the dining table for serving the grand Onam Sadya, while potted plants bring freshness and life to your space.
9. Decorate with Traditional Wall Hangings
- What they are: Wall hangings featuring images of King Mahabali, Lord Vishnu, or scenes from Kerala’s rich cultural heritage can instantly transform your home into a celebration of Onam.
- How to decorate: Choose wall hangings made from natural fibers or fabrics, showcasing traditional Kerala motifs. These are available in a variety of designs, such as elephants, Kathakali dancers, or temple scenes, to bring the spirit of Kerala into your home.
10. Festive Lighting
- What it is: Lighting is a key part of Onam decor. Soft, warm lighting helps create a festive and welcoming atmosphere in your home.
- How to decorate: Use brass oil lamps, fairy lights, or traditional lanterns to illuminate your home. Arrange them around the Athappookkalam or near the entrance to welcome guests in the evening.
Conclusion: Decorate Your Home with Kerala Handicrafts from Lalitam Crafts
During Onam, decorating your home is not just about aesthetics; it’s about celebrating Kerala’s rich heritage and welcoming the spirit of King Mahabali. By incorporating authentic Kerala handicrafts such as Nettipattams, Kathakali statues, and elephant figurines, you bring the essence of Kerala into your home. Explore the exclusive collection at Lalitam Crafts to find the perfect decorative items for your Onam celebration and make your home a true reflection of Kerala’s cultural splendor.
