Onam, Kerala’s grand harvest festival, is a celebration of prosperity, tradition, and togetherness. Beyond the vibrant pookalams (floral carpets), the delicious Onasadya (feast), and the exciting Vallam Kali (boat races), jewellery plays a key role in completing the festive look. During Onam, ornaments are more than just adornments—they symbolize blessings, prosperity, and Kerala’s timeless culture.
Kasu Mala – The Coin Necklace of Prosperity
Among Kerala’s most iconic ornaments, the Kasu Mala stands out for its cultural and symbolic value. This traditional gold necklace is crafted with a series of coins strung together, each representing wealth and abundance. Worn with the traditional Kasavu saree, the Kasu Mala reflects prosperity—perfectly aligning with Onam’s spirit of joy and harvest. Many women treasure it as a family heirloom, preserving its beauty and meaning across generations.
Mullamottu Mala – Inspired by Jasmine Buds
The Mullamottu Mala is another classic piece that captures the grace of Kerala women. Designed to resemble jasmine buds, this necklace symbolizes purity and elegance. Its delicate design complements festive attire, adding a soft glow to the Onam ensemble. Often paired with matching earrings or bangles, the Mullamottu Mala blends floral inspiration with gold craftsmanship, making it a timeless favorite during every celebration.
Jhimkis – The Festival Earrings
No Onam look is truly complete without Jhimkis, the beloved bell-shaped earrings that shimmer with every movement. Traditionally made of gold, Jhimkis represent femininity, charm, and joy. Whether paired with a Kasavu saree or modern attire, these earrings bring a traditional sparkle that brightens every smile. Families across Kerala cherish them as symbols of warmth and continuity, often passing them down from mother to daughter.
Oddiyanam – The Regal Waist Belt
The Oddiyanam, a traditional gold waist belt, holds both cultural and aesthetic significance. Worn around the waist to accentuate the saree, it adds a regal touch to festive attire. Apart from enhancing beauty, it represents grace, strength, and discipline—values deeply rooted in Kerala’s traditions. Intricately designed with motifs of flowers and peacocks, the Oddiyanam reflects the craftsmanship and creativity of Kerala’s artisans.
Bangles and Vanki – Sparkling Symbols of Joy
Rows of glittering gold bangles are a familiar sight during Onam. The rhythmic sound of bangles clinking together adds music to every celebration. Along with these, Vanki—the traditional armlet—graces the upper arm, often designed with intricate patterns of peacocks or floral motifs. Both ornaments bring out the charm of Kerala’s festive fashion, symbolizing elegance, confidence, and energy.
Elakkathali – The Flat Gold Choker
The Elakkathali, also known as the flat gold choker, is another essential part of Kerala’s traditional jewellery. Its broad and polished design lies flat against the neck, giving a bold yet graceful look. Often paired with longer necklaces like the Kasu Mala or Mullamottu Mala, it completes the festive jewellery set, reflecting both simplicity and sophistication.
Gifting Ornaments During Onam
Jewellery during Onam isn’t limited to personal adornment—it’s also a cherished form of gifting. Families often exchange ornaments as a token of love, blessings, and goodwill. This act of gifting symbolizes prosperity and strengthens family bonds, carrying forward Kerala’s rich traditions from one generation to the next. Even a simple gold chain or pair of earrings given during Onam becomes a treasured keepsake that holds emotional and cultural value.
The Beauty of Tradition
Onam is not just about the harvest—it’s about celebrating life, beauty, and heritage. Each ornament, from the grand Kasu Mala to the elegant Elakkathali, tells a story of craftsmanship, devotion, and pride. These traditional pieces connect people to their roots while adding sparkle to the festival of joy. More than gold and glitter, Onam jewellery represents the spirit of Kerala—timeless, graceful, and full of life.
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