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Rediscovering Onam and its Diversity |Dr P. Ranjith | Vaayo Talks | ARPO
In this Vaayo Talk, Dr. P. Ranjith explores the historical, cultural, and social dimensions of Onam, one of Kerala's most significant festivals. Drawing from history, folklore, literature, and contemporary interpretations, he reflects on the multiple narratives of Onam and the diverse ways in which it has been understood and celebrated across communities. The talk examines questions of memory, identity, tradition, and cultural change, inviting viewers to look beyond familiar
Pathonam | Many Stories of Onam | An ARPO Original Documentary
What if the Onam we know is only one version of the story? Pathonam looks beyond the familiar and popular image of Onam that we know of pookalams, kasavu, sadhya and the story of Mahabali to explore the many ways Onam has been celebrated across Kerala. From Onapottan and Thuyilunarthupattu to Onathallu, Onavillu, Pulikali and Vallam Kali, this documentary traces the traditions, memories and histories that have shaped Onam and asks how one festival came to be understood throug
Paliya Ulsavam at Kumaly: Celebrating Palichiyamma
Paliya Ulsavam is the annual festival of the Paliyar community in Kerala, held every April. Rooted in forest traditions and ancestral worship, the festival today blends temple rituals with cultural expressions like Kummi-adi and Paliya Nritham. From the sacred pilgrimage to Kalluveriyar to votive offerings such as Mulapayaru, Maavilakku, and Theechatti, the celebration reflects the community’s deep faith, resilience, and collective identity.
Chakkupallam’s Paliya Ulsavam: Tradition, Adaptation, and Collective Faith
At Chakkupallam in Idukki, the Paliyar community comes together each April to celebrate Paliya Ulsavam, their annual harvest-season festival at their newly built Sree Badrakaliyamman Temple.
Pongal: A Celebration of Mannan Deities
Among the various cultural celebrations of the Mannan community, Pongal stands out as a significant and spiritually rooted annual festival. While Kalaayoottu is perhaps more well-known, Pongal carries its own weight in ritual, symbolism, and community spirit. Deeply tied to the land, the gods, and the lineage of clans, the festival serves as a religious observance, reaffirming the identity and unity within the Mannan society. Mannan community memebers gathered at Chinnar for
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