After the gala Onam feast, wonderful Kathakali dance performances, socializing and exchanging warm wishes, Onam celebrations are marked with lots of indoor and outdoor traditional sports and activities to indulge in, collectively known as 'Onakalikal'. Besides the usual games of chess, dice or cards, played by the old people there are football matches, personal combats, archery and boxing for the young and more energetic. These games add to the enthusiasm and vibrancy of the festival. People of all age groups participate in the festivals and enjoy the festivities.
Traditional Onam Games
Ball Games
PantukaliThe most popular outdoor game is Pantukali in which the ball is prepared by tying a few pebbles in the layers of dried-up plantain leaves with the help of a plantain or coconut fiber. The players are divided into two groups and a stick called 'natta' is planted at one end of the court. The court is basically an open space with lines drawn at to indicate the limit beyond which the ball should not be thrown. One party serves the ball and tries to hit the stick while others try to catch it. If the ball is caught then the man is out otherwise he gets another chance.
Combats
KayyankaliCombats are usually of two kinds - those that are undertaken singly known as Kayyankali. It is a violent game and has all the risks of an ancient duel. However no weapons or horses are allowed. In this game there is a display of power. The participants fight one to one. This game is basically the display of power. There are fights, wounds, blood and even death at times.
AttakalamAttakalam is another kind of combat which is comparatively less hazardous in nature compared to the Kayyankali. In this the game is not played individually rather the players are made to play into groups. A large circle is drawn on the plain sand floor and one group is placed inside the circle. A member of the second group tries to bring the former outside the circle and both are free to use force. However, once any member of the inside team steps of the circle, he is considered out. After all the members of a team are dragged out, the other team takes its position inside the circle. If a member of any team cannot be driven out, his party is declared victorious.
AmbeyyalAmbeyyal is actually the game of ‘archery’. In this game, two groups of young men shoot blunted arrows at each other. It is a game to test the patience, skill and persistence of the players. However, since the arrows are strong and are delivered with force, they still manage to hurt many. The bows are made of about 18-inch long bamboo. There is a mark in the form of a little stick called 'cheppu' and those who hit this mark are allowed to carry all the arrows lying on the ground for their team.
KutukutuPopularly known as Kabbaddi in rest of India, Kutukutu is a simple group game. In this game, there are two teams with eight players each. It is played in a rectangular court which is divided into two halves, one for each team. One man from one group advances from the middle line towards the opponent's area uttering 'Kutu Kutu' in one continuous breath and try to touch the opponents and run back to the central line without being caught. However, if he is physically caught and is out of breath before touching the central line, he is out of the game. by orkutyy.blogspot.com
Onam Wishes
The state festival of Kerala, Onam, is celebrated with zeal. All through the ten days of the festival, the air is filled with excitement, while people are busy in welcoming their King Mahabali. Feasting, laying Pookkalam (floral carpet) on floor, singing songs and shopping are the highlights of the festival. Malayalees from the nook and corner of the country as well as abroad make it a point to visit their loved ones back home in Kerala, during the festive season. Wishes are exchanged at the time, when people exchange gifts and present Onakkodi (new clothes especially purchased to wear on Thiruvonam) to their near and dear. If you want to wish your beloved a very 'Happy Onam', then go through the following lines and get some warm Onam wishes.
Wishes For Onam Festival
Aishwaryathintheyum, samridhiyudaeyum Thiruvonam aashamsikkunnu. Ellavarkkum ente hridayam nirannja Onashamsagal!
Hope this Onam brings in good fortune & abounding happiness to you! Wish you and your family a frivolous Onam!
May this Onam be the forerunner of good luck and joyfulness and may it bring you joy, that lasts all year!
Nilavilakinte Parishudhiyum, Tumbapoovinte Nairmalyavumai, Varunna Ponnin Chinga Masathile Ponnonatte Varavelkan Niranja Snehathode Ende ONAM Ashamsagal.
May the spirit of Onam remains everywhere - in whatever you do, whatever you think and whatever you hope in your life. Wish you a Happy Onam.
May the color and lights of Onam fill your home with happiness and joy. My heartful wishes to you, on Onam.
As the festive occasion of Onam is round the corner, and the atmosphere is filled with the spirit of mirth and love, here's hoping this festival of beauty brings your way, bright sparkles of contentment, that stay with you through the days ahead. Best wishes on Onam.
Fortunate is the one who has learned to admire, but not to envy. Good Wishes for a joyous Onam.
Pookkalavum,Pooviliyum,Onakkodiyum. Onasadhyayumayi oru onam koodi. Ponnonashamsagal!
Onam is the time for pookkalam on floor; children on swings; tiger clad men with hunters behind them; people enjoying sadyas with family. Let this Onam bring Joy and Prosperity to all. Happy Onam! by orkutty.blogspot.com
