MUSCAT: Thousands of Malayalees living in Oman are gearing-up to celebrate Onam on Saturday, August 21.
In the wake of coronavirus pandemic, the Malayalee community in Oman is preparing for a “safe Onam” in their homes.
Onam is celebrated to mark the mythical homecoming of King Mahabali, during whose reign the state known as ‘God’s Own Country’ is said to have witnessed the golden era.
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Keralites wear new, traditional outfits and jewellery and also prepare the sumptuous Onasadhya, the grand feast that forms the most important part of the celebration. Served on banana leaves, a typical Onasadhya will include more than a dozen items along with rice.
Major retail outlets, supermarkets and restaurants in the country have launched festive offers on Onam-related paraphernalia, foodstuffs and fashion essentials.
With the most important day of Onam — Thiruvonam falling on weekend, many are celebrating with their families at home. “We cannot invite friends home because of Covid-19 but we prefer to celebrate with my family by preparing the sadhya,” said Jineesh Nair, a Muscat based resident.
Due to Covid protocols, restaurants in the city are offering take-away of Onasadhya priced between OMR 2.5 to OMR 3.8. “We have closed our bookings. The response has been overwhelming,” said a manager of top Kerala restaurant in Muscat.
