Onam 2024: The Symbolism Behind Kasavu Sarees and the White-Gold Tradition
onam, a prominent Hindu harvest festival in Kerala, celebrates the return of the legendary king Mahabali to Earth. This year, onam will be observed from september 5 to september 15. The festival is a vibrant showcase of Kerala's rich traditions, blending colors, culture, and customs. Among the many hues that adorn the celebrations, white and gold hold special significance, particularly in the traditional Kasavu saree.
The Kasavu saree, characterized by its pure white fabric and golden borders, is emblematic of Onam. The color white represents purity, peace, and unity, reflecting Kerala's spirit of inclusiveness and respect for diverse cultures and traditions. Wearing white during onam symbolizes the celebration of cultural heritage and regional harmony.
The golden zari work on the saree's borders adds a touch of opulence, symbolizing prosperity and the harvest season that onam celebrates. The gold threads evoke the richness of the harvest and the abundance associated with the festival. This luxurious touch contrasts with the simplicity of the white fabric, embodying the festive spirit of plenty and affluence.
The tradition of white and gold extends beyond women's sarees. Men also don traditional white dhotis with gold borders during the festival.
The Legacy of the Kasavu Saree
The Kasavu saree, with its bright white body and gold or zari border, has been an integral part of Kerala's cultural heritage for centuries. Originally, the gold borders symbolized wealth and luxury. However, as gold became more expensive and scarce, artisans began using gold and copper-coated silver threads to achieve the golden look, making the sarees more affordable.
The mythological roots of onam are tied to king Mahabali, a revered ruler known for his benevolence. According to Hindu mythology, Mahabali's growing power worried the gods. To test his humility, Lord vishnu took the form of a dwarf Brahmin named Vamana and asked for three paces of land. Mahabali agreed, and Vamana expanded to cover the entire universe in two steps. In surrender, Mahabali offered his own head for the third step. Impressed by Mahabali's generosity, vishnu granted him the boon to visit Earth once a year, which is commemorated as onam in Kerala.
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