Onam 2025: Why Women Wear White-Gold Kasavu Saree on Thiruvonam
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Onam, the most vibrant harvest festival of Kerala, is celebrated with grandeur and devotion across the state. The festivities include decorating homes with colourful Pookkalam (floral rangolis), preparing the lavish vegetarian spread called Onam Sadya , dressing in traditional attire, and participating in cultural events. Among the many customs, wearing the elegant white-gold Kasavu saree during Thiruvonam holds a special cultural and spiritual significance.
What Makes Thiruvonam Special ?
Thiruvonam, the tenth and most important day of the Onam festival, is observed on the Shravana Nakshatra as per the Malayalam calendar. It marks the legendary return of King Mahabali to visit his people. Falling in late August or early September, this day is the highlight of the ten-day-long celebration and carries deep traditional and religious importance.
Why Women Wear Kasavu Sarees During Onam
Women across Kerala choose to wear the timeless Kasavu saree on Thiruvonam. This attire, paired with gold jewellery, subtle makeup, and flowers adorning the hair, symbolises far more than elegance.
Other Traditional Outfits for Onam
While the Kasavu saree remains the highlight, there are other traditional attires worn during Thiruvonam:
Kasavu Saree: A Timeless Symbol of Kerala’s Culture
The Kasavu saree is not just attire but a cultural identity of Kerala, reflecting its deep-rooted traditions, artistry, and festive spirit. Wearing this saree on Thiruvonam is a way of embracing heritage, spreading positivity, and celebrating the essence of Onam in its truest form.
What Makes Thiruvonam Special ?
Thiruvonam, the tenth and most important day of the Onam festival, is observed on the Shravana Nakshatra as per the Malayalam calendar. It marks the legendary return of King Mahabali to visit his people. Falling in late August or early September, this day is the highlight of the ten-day-long celebration and carries deep traditional and religious importance.
Why Women Wear Kasavu Sarees During Onam
Women across Kerala choose to wear the timeless Kasavu saree on Thiruvonam. This attire, paired with gold jewellery, subtle makeup, and flowers adorning the hair, symbolises far more than elegance.
- Colours of Tradition: White and gold are the signature hues of Onam, perfectly reflected in Kasavu sarees.
- Symbol of Prosperity: The golden border represents wealth, prosperity, and festive joy.
- Essence of Purity: The off-white or cream base of the saree signifies spirituality, peace, and purity of heart.
- Cultural Heritage: Handwoven on cotton, Kasavu sarees showcase Kerala’s weaving traditions, passed down for generations.
- Practical Elegance: Light and breathable, these sarees are ideal for the hot and humid monsoon climate.
- Tribute to Mahabali: Wearing the Kasavu is also seen as a way of honouring the beloved King Mahabali, whose memory lies at the heart of Onam.
Other Traditional Outfits for Onam
While the Kasavu saree remains the highlight, there are other traditional attires worn during Thiruvonam:
- Settu Mundu (Mundum Neriyathum): The oldest form of Kasavu, comprising two pieces of cloth – the mundu for the lower body and the neriyathu for draping across the upper body.
- White Skirts with Golden Borders: Popular among young women, this ensemble is paired with matching blouses.
- Mundu and Kurta for Men: Kerala men traditionally wear an off-white mundu with a white cotton kurta to mark the festival.
Kasavu Saree: A Timeless Symbol of Kerala’s Culture
The Kasavu saree is not just attire but a cultural identity of Kerala, reflecting its deep-rooted traditions, artistry, and festive spirit. Wearing this saree on Thiruvonam is a way of embracing heritage, spreading positivity, and celebrating the essence of Onam in its truest form.
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