by P Abigail Sadhana Rao
Kerala transforms into surreal blend of tradition, culture, and artistic expression during a festival unlike any other—Onam. This enchanting celebration, steeped in mythology and agrarian roots, brings together the state in a euphoric embrace of joy and splendour. Anyone lucky enough to experience Kerala during Onam will recall the unmistakable aura of festivity that fills the air as every corner of the region becomes a stage for beauty and celebration.
Onam commemorates the mythical return of King Mahabali, who, according to legend, visits his beloved land and people once a year from the netherworld. It is also a festival intertwined with the rhythm of the harvest season when farmers rejoice in the abundance of their fields. The landscape itself comes alive with vibrant hues, elaborate floral arrangements, and the timeless art forms of Kerala, each adding to the rich cultural mosaic.
From bustling villages to the heart of the cities, performances flourish, showcasing the depth and diversity of Kerala’s artistic heritage. This is a time when tradition meets modernity, where every brushstroke, every movement, and every flavour tells a story of celebration and unity. Onam is more than just a festival—it’s an ode to art, culture, and the spirit of Kerala at its most glorious.
The Athachamayam procession, a grand spectacle in Tripunithura, heralds the beginning of Kerala’s ten-day Onam festival. With a vibrant display of elephant parades, folk performances, music, and dance, this event transports spectators back to the historic royal traditions when the kings of Kochi would travel in splendour to Tripunithura Fort. This rich cultural scene is masterfully brought to life by Mopasang Valath, a self-taught painter from Kerala.
Known for his deep understanding of the watercolour medium, Mopasang has earned recognition not only through awards but also through the sheer brilliance of his work. His delicate yet expressive brushstrokes capture the festival’s energy and historical significance with precision. Valath’s ability to merge tradition with artistic mastery makes his depiction of Athachamayam a visual celebration of Kerala’s cultural heritage.
Kathakali is a mesmerizing art form, where every element contributes to its stunning visual and emotional impact. The elaborate makeup and costumes bring an explosion of color and artistry, with ornate headgear and face masks transforming performers into mythical beings, making each character larger than life. Pooja Wadekar, an architect-turned-artist, brings her unique perspective to watercolor paintings, skillfully capturing the intricate beauty of Kathakali dancers. Her art breathes life into the vibrant attire, elaborate makeup, and grand headgear of the performers, highlighting the traditional aesthetics and the cultural depth of Kathakali through her expressive brushstrokes. This artwork showcases her ability to merge her architectural precision with the fluidity of watercolor, resulting in works that celebrate the art and spirit of this classical dance form.
The intricate gestures and expressions—known as “mudras”—serve as a language of their own, each meticulously choreographed to convey complex emotions and narrative subtleties, making the art of expression as crucial as the dance itself. Through storytelling, Kathakali draws from Hindu epics, folklore, and legends, blending mythology with artistic performance, where each movement tells a visual story. The blend of art forms, including music, dance, and acting, creates a harmonious fusion, where every rhythm, gesture, and facial expression is intertwined with the narrative. Visually, Kathakali is a stunning spectacle, filled with dramatic expressions and bold colors that evoke both awe and deep emotion. Each aspect of Kathakali is infused with artistry, from makeup to movement, weaving together a complete, immersive experience.
A unique yet often underappreciated series by master artist M.F. Husain vividly celebrates the rich culture of Kerala. Through his expressive strokes and iconic style, Husain masterfully captures the state’s vibrant traditions, lush landscapes, and spiritual heritage. He was a master of blending traditional Indian art forms with modernism, and his art was a tribute to India’s rich cultural heritage. Essetially Onam is a festival that beautifully brings people together, celebrating the spirit of unity, joy, and the feeling of being part of one big family. The vibrant traditions, artistic expressions, and shared festivities embody the essence of togetherness, making Onam a time when communities connect beyond boundaries.
Here at Mojarto, we embrace this spirit by curating art that reflects these values—art that resonates with the warmth, culture, and celebratory nature of Onam. While the festivities unfold, we’re here to bring you art that enriches your space and heart, uniting tradition with creativity.