Day 26 -13/09/2024

Onam Festival Celebration at GGVHS Pettah;

On this particular day, I reached the school at 9:15 am, as usual, unaware that the atmosphere would be quite different from the typical day of teaching and learning. As soon as I entered the school premises, I could sense the festive energy in the air—today was the school's celebration of Onam. The vibrant colors, the excited chatter, and the preparations for the festivities gave the school a lively, joyful atmosphere.

I began the day by signing in at the headmaster’s office, marking the official start of what would be a very special day. My first destination was the area where the Atham Pookkalam (floral carpet) was being prepared. This wasn’t just an ordinary task for me—it was my first time being actively involved in creating an Atham. I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment as I contributed to what turned out to be one of the most beautiful floral carpets I had ever seen. It felt symbolic, like the beginning of something joyous, and it truly set the tone for the rest of the day’s celebrations.

The highlight of the day, undoubtedly, was the Onam Sadhya , a traditional feast that brought together everyone in the school. The food was nothing short of amazing, with the delicious flavors of Kerala cuisine filling the air. Sharing this meal with students, teachers, and fellow student-teachers made it a communal experience, one that brought us all together in the spirit of the festival. The Sadhya was not just a meal but a reflection of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage, and it was wonderful to witness the way food can bring people together.

After the Sadhya, the celebration continued with a series of programs put together by both students and student-teachers. The performances, ranging from dances to skits, showcased the talent and creativity within the school. It was delightful to watch how enthusiastically everyone participated, reflecting the joy and unity that Onam brings. There was an undeniable sense of community and shared happiness in the air.

The day also featured various competitions from traditional games to more creative contests, which added an extra layer of excitement. Everyone, including students, teachers, and even us student-teachers, got involved in some way. The spirit of friendly competition and the cheerful participation of everyone made these events incredibly fun and memorable.

As the day came to a close, we signed out around 3:30 pm. Though the celebration had officially ended, the happiness and positive energy from the day lingered. On my way out, I couldn’t help but reflect on how this day had not only been a celebration of Onam but also a celebration of the school community coming together. The beauty of the Pookkalam, the joy of the Sadhya, and the warmth of the interactions with students and staff created an experience that was both fulfilling and heartwarming.

In many ways, this day was a reminder of the importance of celebrating cultural traditions and how such events can bring people closer. It was a day full of joy, laughter, and beautiful memories—one that I will cherish as part of my teaching experience at the School.