MUSCAT: Thousands of Keralites living in Oman are gearing-up to celebrate Onam on Monday, August 31.
In the wake of coronavirus pandemic, the Kerala community in Oman are preparing for a “safe Onam” in their homes. As gatherings are banned due to the Covid-19 outbreak in the country, most of them are planning for a low-key Onam.
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.
“This time last year, I was celebrating Onam with my family in Kerala and due to the Covid-19 travel restrictions in place, I prefer to be home here and may get Onam sadhya from a nearby restaurant,” said Shyam Mohan, a Muscat based engineer.
However, 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 Monday, some of those Keralities here have taken-off from work. “I am taking off tomorrow because of Onam. As it comes once in a year, I prefer to be with my family but with no celebrations. Due to Covid-19, we are just making Sadhya and have no plans to invite guests too. We pray that the virus will go away soon,” Arun Menon added.
