Picture used for illustrative purpose only.

Keralites have every reason to burst with joy this year. The Onam festival, whose celebrations were kept on hold owing to the coronavirus for two years, are now back with a bang.

After all, who can resist the customs that have been so popular that go along with it?

The intricate floral decorations on the floor with fresh flowers and petals, Pookalam, which adorns every home in Kerala on Atham, the first day, and softly lighted diyas (earthen lamps) are a must-see.

The annual boat race sends adrenalin soaring, not just of the 100 rowers but also that of the spectators.

And how can one forget the parade of the pachyderms, the elephant regalia, in Thrissur?

Or mouthwatering Onam Sadhya that is oh-so-scrumptious?

For a whole 10 days, not just Kerala, but Keralites in other parts of India and overseas, are on jubilant mode as they mark Onam, the famous harvest festival, which celebrates the return of the legendary demon King Mahabali. Every traveller should include experiencing authentic Onam in person on their bucket list.

Kerala Tourism is set to go into overdrive with carnivals, arts and art forms.

Inviting tourists and those who would like to witness and partake in the celebrations, Rupesh Kumar, Responsible Tourism Mission Coordinator, Government of Kerala says, "The Responsible Tourism Mission is providing an opportunity for tourists to be a part of Onam celebrations in villages too. There is also an opportunity to have Onam Sadhya in the local homes. Kerala Tourism is organising a wide range of Onam celebration programmes in all the district centres. Onam procession will be resumed as a grand celebration in Thiruvananthapuram and the champions boat league was announced by Tourism Minister P.A. Muhammad Riaz."

Pookamal face-offs, dances, local dramas and music are the order of the day. The fame Puli kali or tiger dance, where performers paint their bodies in yellow and white stripes on the fourth day of the festival, is a photographer's delight and joy to watch.