Malayali new year

     Namaskar!

      Today (Aug 17) is the first day of Chingam month (Malayali calander month). From today, all the auspicious functions like marriage ceremonies, etc would be started in Kerala which were prohibited in the previous malayali month Karkidakam. Karkidakam, the monsoon month, is considered good for taking ayurvedic healing therepies, massages, reading Ramayana, etc but not for auspicous functions or starting new events.

          I had already introduced you all with the 'Malayali calander' and its months, especially Karkidakam and Chingam (Onam month) in my previous post/ "Monsoon in Kerala" written last year. So, today, when I came across an article, published in 'The Hindu' newspaper (Aug 17, 2026, Kochi edition), I thought of sharing it with you all. You can read it by clicking on the image. The article is regarding the beginning of Malayali new year, 'Chingam', the first month of Malayali calander/ Kollavarsham and about its significance for Malayali people. 

      

       Pertinently, the day (August 17) is also being celebrated as "Ghee-tyar" in my home state Uttarakhand and as "Nag Panchami" in Gujarat, Maharashtra, MP, etc states. This day is different from Onam, which would be celebrated on August 26 this year in Kerala.

        However, preparations for the Onam have started at each and every household in Kerala. Irrespective of caste or religion, every Keralite celebrates this colourful festival. Have a look at some pictures and videos of Onam celebrations at my and my husband's office. (Updated the blog post on later dates)

Pukkalam/Rangoli drawn 👆 at my office for celebrations (August 20) of Onam festival. 

Onam celebration at my husband's office 👆 (Aug 21)