TechnoparkToday.com>> Onam is at the doorsteps and like every Malayalee, techies also get a reason to enjoy. But, unlike the rest, it’s for a different reason. Most of the mallu techies will get a sure holiday which they are denied on most public holidays.
Since many companies work based on other countries’requirements and shifts, for them, “are kyaa hei is Onam”. Also, everyone will get a day to celebrate which stands out from the usual techie life. The business formals culture will make way for Kerala Dhothies and Sarees.
Coming to the day of celebration, all Malayalee Mankas and Mankans gather around and the first part is to prepare the beautiful flower mandala, the Atthapookkalam sorted out or conceptualised from the thousands of designs on internet. Mobile apps are also available for designs and even competitions are done online. Flowers usually fly from Thovalai or Chalai, since going to pluck flowers to prepare Pookkalam has become history. Non-mallus are the ones who enjoy all these since this is something new for them.
The most interesting part in the pre-arrangement is to search for the guy with the bigggg tummy to represent the Asura King, Mahabali. Thanks to the stupid practice of faking the benevolent king as a funny figure!
Usually, the girl who knows how to tuck in the Kerala Saree is the most in-demand among others. In most of the hostels, the “the saree wearing” itself is a ceremony. Onam is also the time that restricts the pace of movement for guys and girls since you always need to have an eye on your attire.
And after the long wait, once the catering van arrives, preparations are in pace to serve the instant OnaSadhya.
A few games, a few characters unveiled, lot of selfies and overall with a great day to remember, techies bid adieu. And after the holidays, techies are back in the corporate world, back in suit boot waiting for the next Onakkaalam.
– AKHIL RAJARATHINAM