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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
Among the many rich and diverse traditions of Mannan community of Kerala, Payayil Iruthal (also Payel Iruthal) stands out as a deeply humane and spiritually resonant mourning ritual. This unique practice honours the memory of a deceased spouse and provides the surviving partner a sacred space for remembrance, grief, and eventual healing. A Ritual Spanning 7 long days Payayil Iruthal is traditionally observed for three consecutive years following the death of an individual. Ea