The Onam is a celebration of culture, tradition, nature’s bounty, symbolising harvest festivals and expressing gratitude, bringing families, communities together in a spirit of joy and togetherness
Onam, the harvest festival of Kerala, is renowned for its grand feast known as the Sadhya. Also known as Thiru-Onam or Thiruvonam, this is a harvest festival that celebrates the return of King Mahabali/Maveli to his beloved state. It's a time of thanksgiving for the bountiful crops. Truly, what adds to the festival is the tradition of the ‘Onam Sadhya’.
Traditionally, an Onam Sadhya consists of around 24 to 64 dishes. What sets this meal apart is its intricate balance of tastes—sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and spicy—all harmoniously combined to create a delightful experience.
The number of dishes vary based on the region. There is a specific order in which the dishes are served on the banana leaf. It usually starts with serving the rice, followed by various curries, pickles, and desserts.
Interestingly, the feast is traditionally eaten with the hands, believed to enhance the sensory experience of the varied flavours. Families and communities come together to enjoy the feast, which is a way to celebrate the bountiful harvest, express gratitude, and bring people together in a spirit of joy and togetherness.
People decorate their homes with floral arrangements called "Pookkalam" and wear traditional attire during the festival for a holistic experience, an integral and cherished part of the celebration.
Folding the Banana Leaf Is Important
Towards You: Once you've finished eating, fold the banana leaf towards you. This helps to signify that you've enjoyed the meal and are satisfied.The grandeur of Onam Sadhya awaits you offering annual culinary extravaganza in Delhi, Mumbai, Goa, Pune and Bengaluru.
Exclusive ADIPOLI ONAM SADHYA at South of Vindhyas, The Orchid Hotel, Mumbai
South of Vindhyas, the authentic Southern Indian restaurant at The Orchid Hotel Mumbai, is all set to welcome the diners for the much-awaited ADIPOLI ONAM SADHYA feast. This exclusive culinary experience promises an immersive experience for guests to the rich flavors of Kerala, in authentic style.
Chef Bala Subramaniam, the culinary maestro behind South of Vindhyas, has meticulously crafted a menu featuring 56 authentic dishes that capture the true essence of Southern India. Upon arrival, guests will be greeted with a refreshing Kachia Moru (Buttermilk) or a warm Thakkali Rasam (Tomato Soup), setting the tone for the culinary journey ahead. The feast unfolds with a variety of crispy and flavorful chips, including Banana Chips, Jackfruit Chips, Plantain Chips, and the ever-popular Nendrankai Chips. Guests can indulge in an array of traditional breads like Appam, Kal Dosa, and Malabari Paratha with main course, which includes a diverse selection of vegetarian dishes that celebrate the harvest. From Olan (Chowlibeans & White Pumpkin) and Kalan (Suran) to the flavorful Avial and Kootu Curry and much more, each dish is a celebration of Kerala’s culinary heritage. A variety of pachadis (pickles) such as Vellari Pachadi (Cucumber Pickle), Pavakkai Pachadi (Ridge Gourd Pickle), Bhindi Pachadi (Okra Pickle), and Manga Curry (Mango Curry) add a tangy twist to the meal. Complementing the spread are rice preparations including Red Rice, Steamed Rice, Lemon Sevai, and Coconut Sevai.
To conclude the meal, guests can indulge in a range of traditional sweets like Ada Pradhaman, Kadala Pradhaman (Black Gram Payasam), and Mambazha Pradhaman/Chakka Pradhaman (Mango/Jackfruit Payasam), along with other delightful treats like Pazham Pori (Banana Fritters) and Panchamrutham (Sweet Nectar).
Step in and you will be transported to Kerala with the venue adorned in beautifully arranged banana leaves and vibrant rangoli patterns. Enhancing the authenticity, the staff will be dressed in traditional South Indian attire adding a genuine touch of Kerala’s rich heritage to your dining experience. The ADIPOLI ONAM SADHYA at South of Vindhyas is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of culture, tradition, and the joy of sharing food with loved ones. The meticulously prepared dishes, the vibrant ambiance, and the warm hospitality make this an experience not to be missed.
Lunch & Dinner
12th to 16th September
At South of Vindhyas,
The Orchid Hotel Mumbai
Contact : 7506010316
Sadhya Culinary Voyage At Sana di ge, Delhi
Sana-di-ge, the well known culinary haven for coastal cuisine enthusiasts, is set to treat the patrons once again with an exceptional Sadhya experience. The acclaimed restaurant, like every year, promises a sensory journey into the diverse and aromatic world of coastal India’s gastronomic legacy.
The stunning entrance with beautifully oil lit diya is the reminder of its name - Sana-di-ge, derived from the Tulu language meaning a brass lamp. The restaurant is known for its authentic coastal recipes curated with freshly sourced ingredients. The extensive menu comprises delicacies from Mangalore, Goa, Maharashtra, and Kerala. The food here is served on brass plates lined with plantain leaves giving an experience of Dakshina Kannada dining.
Savour a symphony of Sadhya feast with dishes, elegantly served on traditional banana leaves. Says Executive Chef Sukesh Kanchan, “In our Sadhya menu, each dish captures the essence of Kerala’s culinary heritage. The highlights of the menu are Sambharam - Spicy buttermilk with fresh coriander, ginger and curry leaves; Upperi - Banana chips; Sharkara Upperi - Sweet banana chips; Kosambari Salad - Traditional Kannadiga salad; Cabbage Thoran; MezhukkuPuratti - Stir fried raw banana finished with coconut silvers & crushed dry red chilli; Avial and a lot more. The feast concludes on a sweet note with the signature ‘Chana Dal Payasam’, a melding of jaggery, cow’s milk, coconut milk, and chana dal.”
The culinary art and decor of Sana-di-ge are sure to transport patrons to the kitchens of the coast bringing in a one-of-a-kind experience.
Lunch & Dinner
12th to 16th September
22/48 Malcha Marg, New Delhi
Contact : 01140507777
Onam Sadhya Extravaganza At Taj Resorts, Goa
Celebrate the joyous occasion of Sadhya at the luxurious Taj Holiday Village Resort & Spa and Taj Fort Aguada Resort & Spa. Chef Dibyendu Roy and Chef Somnath Rakesh are all set to prepare Sadhya where each dish comes in its authentic style, ensuring that the flavours and textures are true to tradition. The meal is served in a traditional setting, complete with banana leaves and copper vessels, service team in traditional ensemble, creating a truly immersive experience.
Beyond the culinary delights, the Onam celebrations at these resorts also feature Carnatic music playing in the background. These performances offer guests a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Kerala and add to the festive atmosphere. By celebrating Onam with traditional food and cultural performances, Taj Holiday Village and Taj Fort Aguada are fostering a sense of community and preserving the rich heritage of Kerala.
Venue : Caravela at Taj Holiday Village
Date : Lunch On 15th Sept
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Venue : Kokum Kitchen at
Taj Fort Aguada
Date : Lunch on 14th and 15th Sept
Onam Sadya at Santosham, Mumbai
Santosham Foods is thrilled to unveil its beloved Onam Sadhya, where tradition meets taste in a celebration that promises to be nothing short of spectacular.
At Santosham, which aptly translates to 'Happiness' or 'Joy' in Malayalam and Tamil, the team is passionate about delivering an experience that lives up to its name.
Founded in May 2022, Santosham Foods has become synonymous with genuine South Indian flavors in Mumbai. While the city is known for its love of South Indian cuisine, finding those truly authentic tastes amidst a sea of fusion trends is rare. That’s where Santosham comes in, offering a slice of home with every dish.
The Head Chef and Co-Founder, Bhagyalakshmi Gohokar, brings her rich heritage to her kitchen. Growing up in the bustling environment of Shanti Bhavan in Nagpur, she has always been surrounded by the irresistible aroma of freshly brewed filter coffee and crispy medu vadas. Her childhood memories of watching the magic of South Indian cooking unfold have inspired her to bring these authentic flavours to Mumbai.
This year's celebration promises to be even more memorable, with a menu featuring over 40 traditional dishes that will transport your taste buds straight to South India. From the rich and sweet Palada Pradhaman to the spicy and tangy Lemon Achar & Manga Kari, each dish is crafted with love and care, reflecting the true spirit of Onam.
"Last year, we had the pleasure of serving over 2,000 delighted diners during Onam, and this year, we’re set to create even more unforgettable experiences. Our Sadya is not just a meal; it’s a vibrant celebration of tradition, culture and culinary excellence.
So, come and join us at Santosham for a feast that’s brimming with flavour and festivity. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time guest, our Onam Sadya is sure to leave you with a smile and a satisfied belly," says Bhagyalakshmi.
Dates: September 13th, 14th, 15th, 21st, & 22nd
Location: Powai, Chandivali
Date: September 14th & 15th
Location: Manpada, Thane
Exquisite Sadhya at the Sheraton Grand Pune Bund Garden Hotel
Celebrate the spirit of Onam with a traditional Sadhya at the Sheraton Grand Pune Bund Garden Hotel. Feast starts with classic starters like Dal Wada, and Medu Vada, perfectly complemented by refreshing Sambar and the Ingi Thayir. Next are the traditional condiments like Sarakara Uperi, Nendran Chips, and Mango Pickle that set the stage for the main course. A vast range of authentic delights such as the Avial, Kadla Curry, Olan, and Thoran, all served with the aromatic Ponni Rice, flaky Pooris and finished with the comforting Thayir Sadam. Indulge in Paruppu Payasam and the Banana Sheera to complete the feast.
Lunch On 13th, 14th, and 15th of September
At Feast, Sheraton Grand Pune Bund Garden Hotel
Grand Sadhya At Hilton Bangalore Embassy Golflinks
Savour timeless classics like the appetizing Neyyappam, wholesome Avial, Kootu Curry, Thoran, Olan, Kalan, Pachadi, Inji Puli, and Erissery, each crafted with a perfect balance of spices to awaken your senses to be enjoyed with the wholesome goodness of Parippu, Matta rice and the delightful flavours of Sambar and Rasam, all served on the traditional banana leaf. Conclude your Sadhya on a sweet note with desserts such as Paal Payasam.
Venue: MOF, Hilton Bangalore Embassy Golflinks
Date: 15th September
Timing: 12:30 pm to 04:00 pm
(Sharmila Chand is a senior Journalist and Author who writes on Food, Travel, Lifestyle.)
