Kerala to Host State-Level Onam Celebrations from September 3 to 9

Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala government will organise state-level Onam celebrations from September 3 to 9 this year. The decision was taken in a coordination meeting chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, where senior ministers and officials finalised the schedule and logistical arrangements. The official festivities will conclude with a grand procession in Thiruvananthapuram on September 9.
Onam, considered the most important cultural festival in Kerala, is marked not just by private celebrations but also by elaborate state-sponsored programmes. These include cultural performances, fairs, exhibitions, and public events aimed at showcasing Kerala’s traditional art forms and local produce. The District Tourism Promotion Councils (DTPCs) will lead the celebration efforts at the district level, while Thiruvananthapuram city will host the main events. A stretch from Kowdiar to Manacaud will be designated as the central festival zone, with enhanced lighting and public decorations.
The state government has directed that all departments work together to ensure a coordinated and vibrant celebration. All events will be held under the “Haritha Onam” (Green Onam) protocol, with a focus on environmental sustainability.
Kudumbashree, Kerala’s women-led poverty eradication and empowerment mission, will organise Onam fairs at multiple levels, including district and community units. It has also undertaken seasonal vegetable and flower cultivation ahead of the festival, with harvesting scheduled to be completed before the celebrations.
The state will also distribute special Onam kits containing essential items through both offline and online platforms. Government agencies like Supplyco will operate Onam markets across districts, taluks, and constituency centres to ensure access to essential commodities at regulated prices. Distribution of vegetables and daily-use goods has already begun through Consumerfed and primary cooperative societies. Additional cooperatives are expected to bring more locally grown produce to the markets. Horticorp and the agriculture department will also expand their supply chains to ensure availability of fresh items.
Cultural programmes will be held through government-affiliated institutions, and special attractions involving traditional boats are being planned under the fisheries department to draw public participation. The overall aim, according to the government, is to present a unified and eco-conscious celebration across the state.
Ministers P. A. Mohammed Riyas, V. N. Vasavan, Saji Cherian, J. Chinchu Rani, G. R. Anil, M. B. Rajesh, V. Sivankutty, P. Prasad, and Chief Secretary Dr. V. Jayathilak were present at the meeting.