5th September 2025 Beena
Happy Onam to everyone celebrating this harvest festival. I created this unique piece at Kala’s request. Instead of the usual Onam sadya (feast), boat race, or Mahabali, I chose to depict a traditional lamp I came across. Using acrylic paints, I brought this lamp to life, keeping the background deliberately obscure to emphasise its beauty.
As I was painting this, I realised how much I’ve learned about different cultural and religious celebrations. I knew today also happened to be Prophet Mohammed’s birthday. I was surprised when Kong said it is also Zhongyuan (Ghost Month), which is celebrated in Southeast and East Asia.
When I expressed in my art, “May the light shine on…”, I meant to convey that, despite our diverse cultural and religious backgrounds, we are all interconnected as living beings on this Earth. Our shared value of coexistence is vital, as any disruption to this harmony will cause unnecessary suffering. Let us all strive to let the light of kindness illuminate our lives, regardless of the occasion we celebrate.
7 thoughts on “Onam 2025, May the Light Shine On”
Three auspicious events on one day – good to see Malaysians keep their heritage alive.
Hi Nikki
Isn’t it wonderful that despite our differences, we all carry the the spirit of hope in the light that shines on us,
Thanks
Beena
Happy Onam
The lamp really brings out the essence of festival’s- to be a light to guide us with our beliefs and faith
Dear Geet,
Thank you for the comment. I felt the traditional lamp has a unique message, deep rooted and powerful to carry us though the darkness.
Love
Beens
Onam write up by Gemini generative AI
Onam is a vibrant annual harvest festival celebrated with immense fervor in the Indian state of Kerala. It’s a festival that transcends religious boundaries, bringing people from all communities together in a spirit of unity and joy.
The festival commemorates the mythical King Mahabali, whose benevolent reign is believed to have brought about a golden era of peace and prosperity to Kerala. Legend has it that Mahabali, banished to the netherworld by Lord Vishnu in his Vamana avatar, is allowed to visit his beloved subjects once a year during Onam.
Preparations for Onam begin days in advance. Homes are meticulously cleaned and decorated. The most iconic decoration is the ‘Pookalam,’ intricate floral carpets laid out at the entrance of homes. These beautiful arrangements, made with various fresh flowers, symbolize the welcoming of King Mahabali.
The culinary highlight of Onam is the ‘Onam Sadhya,’ a grand vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf. It comprises a staggering array of dishes, typically ranging from 20 to 30 different preparations, including rice, various curries, pickles, chutneys, and desserts like ‘Payasam.’ The Sadhya is a true testament to Kerala’s rich culinary heritage.
Other significant aspects of Onam include traditional dances like ‘Thiruvathirakali’ and ‘Kathakali,’ boat races known as ‘Vallamkali,’ and various games and cultural performances. People dress in new clothes, visit temples, and exchange gifts, all contributing to the festive atmosphere.
A traditional lamp, often made of brass or bronze, plays a significant role in Onam celebrations. These lamps, known as ‘Nilavilakku,’ are lit during auspicious occasions and are believed to bring good fortune and positive energy.
Beena, your reflections are as beautiful as your painting of the lamp. Great job.
Beena, as you’ve rightly said – floral tributes, sweet savouries, dishes, get together, music, dance, games… everything brings happiness as one celebrates festivals.
But, unique is the lamp, which guides us along the right path.
It’s a symbol of fearlessness and hope.
May this light lead us all.
“Thamaso ma sat gamaya”
🙏🙏🙏
Dear Kala
Thanks for the comment. Yes, let the light guide us all to a world of peace and hope.
Love
Beena