Celebrations of Onam have been rather sombre in Kerala this year, as the state desperately tries to fight back the aftermath of the worst floods since 1924. Over 300 people have been killed in the floods and lakhs of people are still in relief camps.
People marked the occasion in relief camps, making small floral carpets and cooking together. Onam, the harvest festival, is celebrated with floral carpets and preparing Onam Sadhya.
The Kerala government had earlier announced cancellation of Onam celebrations with the chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan announcing diversion of Rs 30 crore kept aside for the celebrations, to the Chief Minister’s Distress Relief fund.
Homes and relief camps were adorned with flowers and people celebrated to lighten the burden of losses and grief.
President Ram Nath Kovind wished citizens on Onam and prayed for a new beginning. “Good wishes to fellow citizens, particularly to our brothers and sisters in Kerala, on Onam. May this festival mark a new beginning for all those in Kerala recovering in the aftermath of the floods, and gradually beginning to rebuild their lives,” was the President’s message.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted, “May this Onam give further strength to the people of Kerala to overcome the adversities they have been facing for the past few days. The entire nation stands shoulder to shoulder with Kerala and prays for the happiness as well as prosperity of its citizens.”
Congress president Rahul Gandhi tweeted: “This is a difficult time for the people of Kerala. In relief camps & homes across the state, people are grieving for their loved ones. On this Onam let us pledge to put aside our differences, stand united together and focus on the task of rebuilding Kerala.”
West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee wrote on Twitter: “Wishing my Malayalee brothers and sisters a Happy Onam. We are sure you will overcome the pain of the destruction caused by the devastating Kerala floods and prepare for a bountiful harvest next year.”
