Onam, Kerala's biggest holiday, has come and gone again. It lasts 5 days and is celebrated by Keralites of all religions, although it's roots are Hindu. We were invited to our house helper's house for a meal, then our friend's house for another meal the same day, then we went to the fair the next day. Today, although late because of a transportation strike, our flat held it's Onam celebration with another big meal. I'd have to say we're Onam'd out.
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| On the way to Auntie's house, we went through village after village with the streets filled with shoppers. Very slow going. It was like Black Friday at home. |
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| The traditional Kerala meal: Rice and dahl served on a banana leaf with a lot of sides to mix in. We love it! |
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| Auntie and her husband. The tradition is for the guests to eat first, then the family to eat. It's really awkward for us, but they won't have it any other way. Auntie's husband fell from a coconut tree when their kids were 1 and 3, resulting in total loss of hearing. He was also paralyzed for a very long time and has been out of work since. Auntie has had to work to provide for the family. |
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| Auntie's son, a taylor, made these traditional Kerala dresses for our girls. So sweet. Aren't they beautiful? |
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| Preparing the flowers for an arrangement called Pookalam with kids in the flat |
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| The finished product |
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| Enjoying the rides at the fair |
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| The park had hung these swings from all the trees, much to Cora's liking. |
