“Festivals are where memories are made and dreams are realized," and "A language is a reflection of a nation's soul”. The greatness of any culture is seen in the festivals celebrated. In the case of Kerala, there is no doubt. learning a language is hard when someone completely relies upon the bookish knowledge, as it seems not able to crack easily in the initial phase, seeing the grammar and letters. Apart from the linguistic basis, there is more importance to the cultural importance and history. Likewise, Malayalam is more than just vocabulary and grammar; it's a world of culture, emotion, and shared stories. And there's no better way to experience this living language than through the exciting and colorful festivals of Kerala.

What is the seasonal guide to Kerala traditional festivals?

Think of Kerala as a traditional calendar filled with different festivals, and each of these celebrations will teach you something or the other in terms of linguistic factors or cultural roots.

• Onam: The festival of harvest and harmony

This festival will let you learn how to tell a story, the names of different dishes, and use the greetings for treating people.

What all are the things you will learn by celebrating Onam?

1. Story: Onam is based on the story of a generous and kind king named Mahabali, also called Maveli. He was so good and powerful that everyone loved him. Over time, Mahabali became very proud and thought he could even rule the heavens! To teach him a lesson about humility, Vamana, a divine figure, came to test him. In the end, Mahabali was sent to the underworld. But he was so loved by his people that it is believed he visits Kerala every year.Onam is the festival when people welcome King Maveli back and celebrate his generosity and the joy he brought to his kingdom. It’s a wonderful story to share with children about kindness, pride, and the spirit of giving.

1. Onam Sadhya: Sadhya is a great vegetarian feast. The Onam meal is a treat for your eyes and your vocabulary! You can make a list of dishes in Malayalam like aviyal (mixed vegetable curry), parippu (lentil curry), and paysam (a sweet dessert).
2. Traditional costumes of Onam: People celebrating Onam often wear Kasavu sarees and mundu. It shows the culture and tradition of the land.
3. Pookalam: It is a beautiful organization of flower arrangements where different and contrasting colours of flowers are used. Some specific flowers used are thumba, thechi, mandaram, chetti, mulla, chembaruthi, thamara, and shangh pushpam. When someone attends the function, it gives them a chance to learn the Malayalam names of the flowers.

• Vishu: The festival of new beginnings

It is believed that Vishu is the auspicious occasion, Words for special rituals can be learned, and the bonding and connections of family members.

1. Vishu Kani: This is the first thing people see on Vishu morning. Learn the names of the items arranged in the kani, like kani konna (golden yellow flowers), velli (silver), and pattu (silk).
2. Vishukaineettam: It is the auspicious occasion where a wholesome amount of money is given to the loved ones. Kaineettam is usually given by the eldest member of the family. Kids look forward to the culture because they are interested in getting pocket money. It is believed that many more blessings and prosperity are showered upon the year from this beautiful beginning of Vishu.
3. Vishu kodi: On the day of Vishu, one wears new clothes, which is denoted by the term “Vishu Kodi.”
4. Family bonding: These festivals mentioned are best when celebrated with family. It fosters connection and values. These moments are treasured forever and remain as cherished memories.

• Thrissur Pooram: Festivals of colours and festivals

The spectacular moment when the whole of Kerala, regardless of the district, celebrates together.

1. The Sounds: This festival is famous for its loud, energetic music. Watch a video and listen for the chenda (a type of drum) and elathalam (cymbals). Learn action words like "adikkunnu," which means "to beat" or "to play" an instrument.
2. The Sights: The festival is a visual treat with decorated elephants and colorful umbrellas. Learn words like aana (elephant), kuda (umbrella), and vedi (fireworks).

In the end, learning Malayalam through the festivals of Kerala is more effective than simply memorizing words from a book. It is not simply about learning the words; it is about the Vishu Kani, the taste of the Onam Sadhya, and the thunder of the chenda that evoke the cultural values. This approach transforms the language from a subject in a book into a living, breathing part of the world. It is all about connecting to the warm, beating heart of Kerala’s culture.

Are you ready to begin this joyful journey? We’d be honoured to guide you. At Akshharam, Beginner Malayalam learning class online, we believe that the best learning happens when it feels like a celebration. Our expert teachers weave these beautiful cultural threads into every interactive lesson, making mastering Malayalam an engaging and delightful experience. Sign up for your free trial class today and feel the difference for yourself. We can’t wait to celebrate your first "Onashamsakal!" with you.

If you are someone who has always wanted to learn Malayalam and visit Kerala, we can help. At Akshharam, through our Malayalam language communication class online, we weave cultural threads into interactive sessions.

Are you most excited by the storytelling of Onam, the new beginnings of Vishu, or the spectacular energy of Thrissur Pooram? Please visit our website and connect with us for more enquiries.