Kerala's traditional Onam pookkalam: a day-by-day guide

Traditional Onam pookkalam preparation follows strict day-by-day rules, from single thumba flower ring on Atham to ten flower types on Thiruvonam. The first three days use only thumba and tulsi. From Vishakham colorful flowers are allowed; Anizham adds an umbrella decoration; Moolam requires a square shape; Pooradam increases to eight rings; Uthradam's largest carpet may include a Thrikkakkara Appan idol. On Thiruvonam, after ritual bath, offerings are placed before the pookkalam; on Uthrattathi the idol is removed. These customs mark Mahabali's journey from Atham.