Category: Culture

Festivals have a special place in the Indian ethos. Being a very diverse country, full of rich heritage and mythology, various regions of India celebrate festivals that define their cultural background and tradition. Festivals are marked by traditional attire, mouth-watering food and several rituals and festivities. Each region adds a regional flavour to festivals and so you will notice that different states celebrate festivals differently.

Harvest festivals have a special significance in India. Being a large country with varied geography and climatic conditions, the cropping patterns are very diverse in India. This leads to different regions celebrating festivals at different times of the year. In addition, India is an agrarian economy with agriculture at its backbone. Over 80% of the rural population depends on agriculture for their primary income. Indians treat mother earth with reverence and owe their growth and prosperity to nature. Harvest festivals are a way of expressing gratitude for the abundance that nature showers on us and are therefore celebrated with great fervour.

Harvest is celebrated differently in each state. The festival Pongal is celebrated in the state of Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra celebrates Gudi Padwa and Punjab celebrates Lohri.  Every festival includes religious ceremonies and feasts. People come together as a community and express gratitude for a bountiful harvest and recognize the hard work that has gone into the cultivation. These harvest festivals also serve as a social and cultural bonding opportunity. In many communities, these festivals also mark the end of an agricultural cycle and a beginning of a new year.

Despite being rooted in tradition, these festivals also reflect the contemporary values and styles of the people who celebrate them. Let us explore these festivals in detail.

Pongal/ Makar Sankranti

Pongal is a traditional harvest festival celebrated in Tamil Nadu. It marks the start of a new Tamil month “Thai” and is therefore often called “Thai Pongal”. Usually, Pongal falls on January 14th every year. Pongal is also a dish made with rice and a lentil called moong dal. There are two varieties of Pongal: a sweet one made with jaggery and ghee called “Chakkarai Pongal” and a savoury one made with fresh ginger, pepper and ghee called “Ven Pongal”. The dishes are offered to the Sun God along with freshly harvested sugarcane, turmeric, and ginger shoots. Chants of “Pongal O Pongal” are in the air during the preparation of the Pongal dish.

In Maharashtra and Karnataka, Makar Sankranti is celebrated with an exchange of multicoloured halwa (a sticky sweet) and Ladoo (balls made of sesame and jaggery). Lunch normally has a sweet flatbread called Puran Poli. Women normally dress in black. After a bath and exchange of sweets, people also fly kites.

Lohri

Lohri is celebrated in the northern states of Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi. It is celebrated on January 13th every year and marks the end of winter. During Lohri, people light bonfires and sing folk songs. Traditional Punjabi delicacies and freshly harvested and roasted corn are generally offered to everyone. Traditional food like Sarson ka Saag (mustard greens), Makki ki roti (flatbread made of corn flour), radish, jaggery and peanuts are consumed. Sugarcane is also used and sesame seeds and jaggery combine to make a sweet called “Tilcholi”.

Bihu

Bihu is celebrated in Assam and marks the beginning of the Assamese new year. It is celebrated thrice during the agrarian calendar. The first Bihu is known as the Bohag Bihu or Rongali Bihu and is celebrated for a period of seven days.  It celebrates the onset of spring. People wear traditional attire and make feasts. The next Bihu is the Kati Bihu which is a subdued occasion and is celebrated to seek blessings from God so that no harm comes to the crops as they are getting ready for harvest. The last Bihu is known as Magh Bihu which marks the end of the harvest season. There is a lot of food and entertainment and farmers generally celebrate.

Onam

Onam is the harvest festival of Kerala and is generally celebrated in August/ September. The festival lasts for ten days and culminates on a day called “Tiruvonam”. People draw traditional patterns in front of their homes and decorate them with fresh flowers. This is significant and is called “Pookolam”. A traditional feast called “Onam Sadhya” which is made of seasonal vegetables like yam, cucumber, ash gourd, and many others is served. The meal is served on plantain leaves and has many courses and includes over two dozen dishes. These include banana chips, Sharkaraveratti (jack fruit), Pappadam, Injipuli, Thoran, Mezhukkupuratti, Kaalan, Olan, Avial, Sambhar, Dal, Erisheri, Rasam, Puliseri, Kichadi, and Pachadi, as well as various vegetable and soups such as Injipuli, Thoran, Mezhukkupuratti, Kaalan, Olan, Avial, Sambaram (buttermilk or curd diluted in water), sweet and sour pickles, and coconut chutney. The meal concludes with a dessert called payasam (a sweet dish made with milk, sugar, jaggery, and other traditional Indian flavours). The curries are served with rice, usually the parboiled rice known as ‘Kerala Matta’ in Kerala.

Chhath Pooja

Chhath pooja is the harvest festival of Bihar, Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh. It is celebrated in October/ November and is dedicated to the Sun God. People offer arghya (water) to the Sun God and take a dip in holy rivers. The word “Chhath” means sixth and the festival is celebrated on the sixth day of the month of Karthikeya. Festivities are observed over four days. Rituals like holy bathing, fasting, and abstaining from drinking water, standing in water for long periods of time and offering arghya and Prasad (offerings) to the Sun God. The most unique feature of Chhath pooja is that there is no idol worship.

Ugadi

Ugadi is celebrated in Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh. Ugadi also marks the birth of a new year. It is considered auspicious to start new work and ventures on the day of Ugadi which is also a harvest festival. People take oil bath, wear traditional clothes, and decorate their home with traditional rangoli (artistic patterns made with rice flour) at their doorstep, and perform Ugadi pooja at home. Delicacies like Ugadi Pachadi, Pulihora, and Bobbatlu are prepared with raw mango, jaggery, neem, and tamarind.

Gudi Padwa

Gudi Padwa is celebrated as New Year in Maharashtra. Mangoes are picked and mark the harvest and conclusion of the Rabi crop for the season. A traditional Gudi or a bamboo stick is garlanded with flowers, neem and mango leaves and topped with cloth and an inverted silver or copper vessel (kalash). The Gudi is positioned prominently in the house or entrance symbolizing victory and prosperity. People have a ritualistic oil bath, wear new clothes, and draw rangoli (traditional patterns) outside their doors. Traditional Maharashtrian dishes such as Puran Poli (Sweet flatbread), Srikhand (sweet yoghurt) and poori bhaji (Fried bread with spicy curry) are made and served.

Conclusion

India has a rich and diverse cultural tradition. Harvest festivals are celebrated in different parts of the country and are a way for the farming community to show respect to mother earth and be grateful for the bountiful harvest that they have had. These festivals are also an occasion for communities to come together, and people of all classes, including labourers, to celebrate and share resources.

The festive season is here, and with it comes the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cakes wafting through the air. Christmas is synonymous with cakes, with the rich flavours of traditional recipes bringing warmth and joy to holiday gatherings. Whether you love a classic plum cake, prefer an eggless cake, or are searching for a perfect Christmas Cake recipe. 

Plum Cake 

The Christmas season is never complete without plum cakes! Known for its dense texture, spiced aroma, and rich flavours, it’s the go-to cake for May. Contrary to its name, a traditional plum cake doesn’t necessarily include fresh plums. Instead, it is packed with soaked dried fruits like raisins, prunes, and dates that, sometimes, are soaked in rum or brandy weeks (even months) in advance, infusing a depth of flavour in the cake. 

Its richness, combined with subtle spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, makes it a perfect centerpiece for your christmas table. 

Eggless Cakes 

Eggless cakes are a fantastic option for a festive treat without eggs. Perfect for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions, this cake doesn’t compromise on flavour or texture. Many Christmas cake recipes have eggless variations, including yoghurt, condensed milk, or applesauce, to achieve a similar texture and taste as traditional recipes. Eggless chocolate cake or a fruit and nut cake are popular options for Christmas cakes. 

Black Forest Cake 

A German delight, Black Forest cake is a festive treat with layers of chocolate sponge, whipped cream, and cherries. Although it’s not traditionally a christmas cake, its decadent chocolatey flavour and bright cherries make it a showstopper during the season. The snow-like whipped cream topping echoes the winder vibes.

Yule Log (Bûche De Noël)

The log-shaped cake represents the ancient tradition of burning the Yule Log during Christmas. Typically made of sponge cake rolled with cream and covered in chocolate ganache, this cake is as symbolic as it is delicious. Its intricate design often includes edible decorations like holly leaves, adding to the festive cheer. 

Stollen

Originating in Germany, stollen is a fruit bread with a marzipan centre dusted with powdered sugar. Its unique flavour comes from spices, dried fruits, and nuts, making it a cross between bread and cake. It’s said to symbolise baby Jesus wrapped in a blanket, making it deeply connected to Christmas. 

Panettone

This Italian Christmas Cake has gained worldwide popularity. Its light, airy texture and subtle sweetness come from candied fruits and raisins, making it a perfect companion for coffee or hot chocolate during the season. Panettone’s dome-shaped structure and soft crumb are as visually appealing as they are tasty. 

Red Velvet Cake 

While not exclusive to Christmas, this christmas cake has a perfect hue of red, making it the ideal choice to add to the festive mood. Its velvety texture and creamy frosting mirror the indulgence of the season. 

Dundee Cake 

Hailing from Scotland, Dundee cake is a lighter alternative to traditional fruitcake. It’s made with almonds, currants, and sultanas, and its signature look includes a neat arrangement of almonds on top. This cake’s subtle flavours are perfect for those who find traditional fruitcakes a little heavy.

Carrot Cake

Carrot cake’s moist texture and a hint of spice make it a cosy choice for christmas. The cream cheese frosting adds a layer of richness while using carrots and nuts, which gives it a wholesome feel. It’s excellent for a non-traditional yet festive treat. 

Gingerbread Cakes 

With warm spices like ginger, cinnamon and nutmeg, gingerbread cake is synonymous with Christmas. This cute and delicious Christmas cake is filled with comforting flavours, and the festive aroma evokes memories of holidays, baking and joy. 

Why Christmas Cakes are Special 

Christmas cakes are more than just desserts; They celebrate tradition, culture, and togetherness. Each cake reflects the unique heritage of its origin while tying it to the universal joy of Christmas. Whether it’s the nostalgia or the simple yet beautiful pleasure of celebrating the joy of Christmas, these cakes always make it more memorable. 

Where can I get Christmas Cakes? 

Truffles, in Feather’s Hotel Chennai, offers a wide range of cakes and dessert hampers curated specially for this season, including delicious plum cakes, gingerbreads, Dundee cakes, and many more. 

Book your hamper today, check Feathers Hotel Chennai – Truffles for more details.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What makes a Christmas Cake different from other cakes? 

Christmas cakes often include warm spices, dried fruits, and nuts, symbolising the warmth and richness of the season. They’re also typically more elaborate and festive in design.

2. Why is fruitcake so famous during Christmas? 

Fruitcakes’ rich flavours, long shelf life, and association with tradition make it a popular choice for the holiday season.

3. What’s the difference between Stollen and Fruitcake? 

While both include dried fruits and nuts, Stollen is a lighter, bread-like cake with a marzipan centre, whereas Fruitcake is dense and heavily spiced.

4. Which cake is the best for a non-traditional Christmas dessert? 

Red velvet and carrot cake are excellent for a non-traditional yet festive treat.

Indian weddings are colourful and grand, which are reflected in the decorations. The trends of 2024 decor in wedding remain with the incorporation of traditional elegance and modern style to achieve beautiful weddings. Make these wedding themes your ultimate checklist of the latest trends in Indian wedding decor for 2024 that will make your wedding unique and more attractive. 

Embracing Sustainable Elegance 

The culture of sustainability is fast picking up in all facets of life and is not an exception in Indian weddings. This is particularly true as couples seek to make appropriate environmentally friendly decor. This includes: 

Biodegradable Decor:

One of the more popular wedding themes of 2024 is biodegradable decor. Decorate with recycled materials, such as bamboo jute and fabrics made from recycled material, such as fabric for a tablecloth. Not only are these materials eco-friendly, but they also give the decorations a touch of antique by today’s standards. 

Potted Plants and Flowers

Potted plants and flowering shrubs are favourable trends instead of cut flowers. They can be placed on the tables as centrepieces or part of the venue, and guests can take them home. 

Reusable and Upcycled Decor

In the decoration part, use old items like antique lanterns, glass bottles, wooden photo frames, etc. This adds a personal touch and boosts environmentally friendly packaging methods. 

Royal and Regal Themes 

Royal decor in wedding, one of the most classic wedding themes that remain popular with the brides. The principles of this decor are borrowed from historical palaces and kings. This trend emphasizes: 

Luxurious Fabrics

Luxurious materials like velvet, silk, and brocade of dark, intense shades of green, blue or burgundy. Such fabrics are utilised in making curtains, tablecloths, seating furniture and other such products. 

Grand Chandeliers and Candelabras

The next one provided a measure of elegance through sheer opulent chandeliers and elaborate candelabras. These can be decorated with crystals, beads, and flower arrangements to make them look more glamorous and kingly. 

Heritage Motifs

including motifs like paisleys, peacocks and embroidery work into the interior design of

the room. These motifs are commonly depicted in designs of backdrops and stages, together with the formation of flowers. 

Modern Minimalism 

While the royal motifs are considered to be strictly glamorous, minimalism in the modern world exists to be simple and sophisticated. Key elements include: 

 Clean Lines and Geometric Shapes

The reception hall decoration incorporates clean lines and shapes. This encompasses roses and other flowers, noble furniture, and simple and elegant stage decorations. 

Neutral and Pastel Palettes

Choose less vivid colours, such as light shades of pink, green, and white, including blush pink, mint green, and ivory. These colours, apart from giving the site an aesthetic and professional look, make everything look simple and classy. 

 Interactive and Functional Decor

The eventual procedures first entail integrating functional design accents, such as photo booths, guests’ sign-in books, and screens. These elements not only beautify but also create interest, especially among the place’s guests. 

 Vibrant and Festive Colors 

Indian marriages are always colourful and full of fun. Most of the decor at wedding include

 Bright and Bold Hues

Bright colours such as marigold yellow, fuchsia pink, and turquoise blue are in focus. These colours are incorporated in flowers, lights, and curtains to facilitate the provision of an energetic ambience to the hotel. 

Multicolored Decor Elements

The utilization of colourful decorations on table appliances, including table runners, cushion covers, and flowers, also brings some liveliness and movement into the decor. 

Colour Blocking

Poor use of contrasting colours placed in large rectangles to make dramatic effects. This technique is mainly applied in flower arrangements and creating backdrops for events and occasions. 

Fusion of Cultures 

Modern Indian weddings have been transmuting the traditional Indian theme with that of styles all over the world. 

Cross-Cultural Decor Elements

Many popular wedding ideas include cross-cultural decor ideas, such as Moroccan lamps, Japanese owls, or classical European flowers, that can be integrated into home decorations.

Themed Decor

Some of these are to come up with decor themes that relate to India but are modern or international, such as the “Bollywood Style” decorations or the “Tropical Island” theme. 

 Global Influences

Decorating trends that have their roots in other countries, for instance, the Scandinesque minimalism, Southern Europe’s color palette, or Eastern Asian sparseness. However, the combination of the two designs gives a modern look to the conventional Indian wedding props design. 

Personalized and Customized Decor 

Individualism is one of the biggest trends in 2024 in terms of decor of which couples also do not remain indifferent and choose elements that reflect them and their story. This includes: 

Custom Backdrops

Creating couple of customized backdrops that can indicate the couple’s names, date of marriage, and other related symbols. These can be made from materials including the acrylic, wooden or the fabric material. 

Themed Decor Elements

Adding individuality in its form such as monogrammed napkins, customizing on the table numbers and signs, and many more. These are some of the things that make the wedding very special and bearing a personal touch. 

Memory Walls

Design memory walls or photo galleries that illustrate the history of the individuals’ relationship. Some details that can be used are the history of the couple: when and how they met, their photos of different stages of relationships, and words of close people. 

Nature-Inspired Decor 

Lining and wallpapers with outlook of nature is still trendy and can be seen as the main idea to bring elements of nature to the thought-out wedding location. This trend includes: 

Floral Arches and Installations 

At work large floral arched and large floral works with flowers and green trees and vines of seasonal nature. All these put in place create beautiful centers for ceremonies and receptions. 

Rustic and Organic Elements

For example, the use of wooden table setting, burlap table cloths and incorporation of centerpieces that depict aspects of nature. This simply gives the environment the nice feeling that anyone would want when making their choice on where and how to live. 

Garden Themes

Turning reception sites into gardens by the use of braces of flowers, flower chandeliers, and garden chairs. This brings new and lively environment that such regular changes tend to bring along. 

Luxurious Table Settings 

When you think of wedding ideas, luxury is a must-have to many. They are becoming more extravagant and opulent, which is a trend in table setting, in terms of detail. Key trends include: 

 Elegant Table Linens: 

Employing the best table cloths, runners and napkins in order to make the guests feel like they are in a five star hotel.

Fine China and Crystal

Choosing delicate, lovely china, sparkling clean glasses of glass, and silver cutlery is an icing on the cake as they enhance the refinement and elegance of the dining process. 

Creative Centerpieces

Creating beautiful and sophisticated centerpieces that include both flowers and candles as well as other decorative objects. These elements are sometimes used as table numbers that control guests’ focus and create some kind of discussion points during the event. 

Immersive Lighting 

Lighting embraces an important part of creating the mood, as well as being an important component of the decor. In 2024, expect to see:In 2024, expect to see: 

LED and Fairy Lights

Switching to LED and fairy lights gave the surroundings a fairy tale look. They can be suspended over the ceilings, coiled around trees or included in flowers arrangements. 

Colour-Changing Lights

Adding lights which could change the color during the event such as switching between blue to red. This brings more energy and can be done in the correspondence with the general topic and the mood in the Victorian wedding. 

Interactive Lighting Displays

Designing technology that produces vivid lighting schemes, which reacts to the appropriate tunes or bodily movement. The above displays are an element of modernity and make the place interesting to visitors. 

Theatrical Stage Designs 

Ceremonial platforms and stages are being made grand and theatrical in design making the events more like theatre performances. This trend includes: 

Grand Stage Backdrops

Creating large stage-setting backgrounds with concepts like fabric drops, floral arrangements, and LED screens is where PEARL finds focal points for celebrating the ceremony and taking pictures. 

Interactive Stage Elements

The use of multimedia, such as animation, moving parts, tricks, and technologies, in the show upgrades the stage and helps to make it even more interesting to the audience. 

Wedding Venues

Now that you have a fair idea about what kind of wedding you want and the decor in wedding that you prefer, we are bestowed upon the next task of deciding a destination for your dream wedding. 

At Feather’s Hotel Chennai, we exquisite and luxurious banquet halls covering up to 20,000 sq. ft

Carnation at Feather’s Hotel is the ideal destination for all your weddings, crafted with elegance and luxury in mind. It offers adaptability and a subtle appeal with 9,250 square feet of banquet space and 5,500 square feet of naturally lighted pre-function area. Carnation can host up to 500 guests for sit-down dinners or 2000 guests for lavish wedding receptions, whether business or social events. It may be separated into three sections as needed, and it handles your unique event needs with unmatched elegance.

Bring all your wedding ideas and dreams to life here. To learn more, check out our banquet halls at the Feathers Hotel. 

Conclusion 

Thus the decoration trends for Indian weddings which are to take place in the year 2024 are colorful mixture of conventional as well as modern ideas which will be beneficial for every couple to choose according to their taste and liking. May it be about sustainable products, kings, and queens themed products, minimalist and fusion design, a wedding 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are popular Indian Wedding Themes? 

Royal and regal, sustainable, personalised, and luxurious are some of the more popular wedding themes. 

2. Does decor matter in a wedding? 

Absolutely decor in wedding sets the tone for the entire event and adds to the ambience, making your wedding much more special. 

3. What are popular colours in Indian weddings? 

traditional reds, burgundy hues, burnt orange/rustic tones, ancient gold, and tonal zardozi embroidery are some of the most popular colours in Indian weddings. 

4. Wedding destinations in Chennai? 

Feathers Hotel Chennai offers exquisite and luxurious banquet halls ideal for all your wedding ideas and plans.

You can either fear Artificial Intelligence [AI] or use it to your advantage and use it best. 

This also applies to the hospitality sector, which primarily provides guest service and has innovated AI to enable smoother operations and improve guest satisfaction. 

AI is positively transforming the hospitality industry. AI’s beneficial effects on visitors are yet another essential feature. Hotels may better understand their guests’ preferences and tailor their recommendations using AI. Whether it is through in-room amenities or neighbouring attractions. That’s not all, though. In addition to saving hoteliers a ton of money, artificial intelligence also enhances the quality of their services. AI-powered chatbots that can answer visitors’ inquiries may reserve a room, relieving hotel workers of some of their workload and ultimately enhancing the quality of service. In general, the development of AI in the hotel sector will have a positive effect in the future. Here is how India’s hospitality industry has used AI and Technology. 

Benefits of AI tools in the hospitality industry

Personalized Guest Experiences 

Highly advanced and interactive technologies are incorporated into the analysis of guest information, including prior visits, preferences, and comments. The information gathered is then used to recommend a place to eat, a plan for spending time there, and a preferred type of room to book to increase guest satisfaction. For instance, a guest who has recently visited the hotel may find the sweets he or she liked in the room or receive recommendations of places to visit based on their preferences. 

Chatbots and Virtual Assistants 

Human-available chatbots and virtual assistants are now on the frontline of offering customer services in hotels. Those AI-driven solutions involve responding to booking requests, offering details about available facilities, and handling various requests instantly. They are available for service at all times, and some specific tasks that guests often have to wait for staff to attend to result in a more efficient process, mainly freeing up the staff for better service to guests. 

Contactless Check-In and Check-Out 

The next inevitable feature that has recently evolved to be contactless is check-ins and check-outs, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. Some hotels have adopted the use of artificial intelligence in check-ins through kiosks and mobile applications, and they even select their rooms to access a digitally key-controlled room without recourse to human contact. Compared to traditional grid-tied systems, this technology affords nearly as much convenience while meeting present-day health and safety standards. 

Smart Room Controls 

Bright guest rooms are another attraction for technology-friendly tourists, and it is all about automation. Innovative technologies include light, temperature, curtains, and entertainment systems, where guests can use voice commands between wills or their mobile phones for control. This level of personalization enhances comfort and energy needs, providing visitors with an integrated technology-enriched experience. 

Predictive Maintenance 

Implementing the correct predictive maintenance approach in hospitality facilities is among the most valuable applications of AI. AI constantly observes the performance of the hotel equipment, and if the equipment is about to give in, it is noticed early to prevent expensive repairs. This anticipatory action minimises downtime and the usable life cycle of a building’s critical assets, such as elevators, HVAC, and kitchen equipment.

Dynamic Pricing Optimization 

AI helps hotels set room rates and vary them depending on supply, demand, competitors’ prices, and even the weather. It is a real-time method of setting prices right, aiming to increase hotels’ revenue while keeping prices reasonable and in synchronization with the market price. 

Robotic room service and cleaning 

While it is hard to believe, machines, particularly robots, are used in hotels to deliver services such as room service delivery, cleaning and Sanitization. These are automatically controlled robots fitted with artificial intelligence and sufficient navigational facilities to make them move around the property most conveniently. They provide quick and self-service, contribute to a high level of cleanliness, and help minimize contact with people and automate routine work. 

Data-Driven Marketing 

It assists hotels in developing better and more efficient marketing strategies because it can peruse large volumes of customer data. Suppose the AI technology knows the booking behaviours, preferences, and even the feedback given by the guests. In that case, it can develop and execute marketing strategies that will enable the hotel to offer guests other customized marketing tools, such as providing offers that will enhance the chances of direct bookings. 

Virtual Reality (VR) Tours 

Virtual reality tours facilitated by artificial intelligence are a unique added convenience that lets prospected visitors walk through the hotel rooms and halls and look at the facilities and venues. This kind of selling enables people to make the right decisions before they check into the hotels, for instance, during weddings or conferences, where physical appearance is very important. 

Enhanced Security Systems 

Facial recognition and enhanced security through AI improve Hotel security in a very big way. These systems can detect security threats within the facility, track guests and staff, and guarantee that only those with privileges can access restricted spaces. This improves the guests’ security and increases their confidence in the security measures put in place by the property. 

 AI-Powered Menu Recommendations 

In hotel restaurants and room service specifically, AI technologies apply guests’ preferences and restrictions on food consumption. It improves the customers’ experience since they get to choose from available foods. Thus, it enhances inventory levels by suggesting foods available in the kitchen to prevent loss through spoilage.

Sentiment Analysis for Guest Feedback 

Guest user data is collected from various sources, and mentions and complaints are processed through machine learning algorithms. This analysis allows hotels to prevent problematic incidents, increase the quality of service delivery, and maintain a good reputation on the web, ultimately improving their chances of getting more bookings. 

Conclusion 

Automation and artificial intelligence continue to present significant changes in the hospitality industry in India as technology presents better ways of addressing guests and running businesses. From individual guest interactions to touchless room bookings, from proactive equipment maintenance to the flexible room rate setting, these technologies put the hospitality industry on a more thoughtful and efficient conduct track. Although adopting these technologies enhances the customers’ experience, it also makes hotels appealing to customers as innovative and responsive to new trends in the market. AI’s evolution can only mean that the hospitality industry can open a wealth of opportunities for advancement, which will be interesting for both guests and hotel owners.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. In what ways has AI enhanced guest experiences in the hospitality industry? 

AI improves guests’ satisfaction by providing custom solutions, individual access to rooms, and the use of voice recognition systems, changing the perception of a stay at a given place. 

2. What are the advantages of using contactless check-in systems in hotels? 

Conventional check-in can be quite time-consuming, while contactless check-in provides convenience, reduced wait time, and a healthier way of avoiding physical contact with staff. 

3. How does AI assist with hotel pricing? 

It executes dynamic demand-based pricing, whereby the rate of the rooms has to be adjusted by using dynamic revenue management strategies such as competitor pricing and market demand conditions, which gives out the overall revenue of the hotel. 

4. Are robots being utilized in the hotel industry? 

Indeed, robots are deployed for services such as food delivery in rooms and cleaning and disinfecting areas.

5. How do security systems powered by artificial intelligence operate in hotels? 

AI enhances security through facial recognition for guests and enhanced surveillance in the monitoring of hotel premises to reduce intrusion cases.

It is that time of year again when we celebrate the festive celebration of Onam. A festival that runs for 10 days and celebrates the return of King Mahabali, Onam is one of the most important festivals celebrated by the people of Kerala. Usually, Onam’s first and last days are considered very important. We cannot discuss Onam without discussing this essential element—Onam Sadhya, a cumulative feast of Kerala cuisine consisting of the traditional food widely prepared in Kerala. 

Onam Sadhya is one thing that unites everyone, whether or not you celebrate Onam. So what is in this Onam Sadhya that makes it so unique? Dive in as we discover 20 Onam Sadhya Dishes that you must try.

20 Must-Try Onam Sadhya Dishes 

Onam Sadhya is primarily a vegetarian feast usually prepared with seasonal vegetables. It is always served in a banana leaf with 12 to 30 food items. We will discuss 20 dishes from Kerala cuisine that you absolutely cannot miss out on for your Onam Sadhya. 

1. Rice (Choru) 

If there is a single item that is a must-have for any Sadhya, it is rice. More than just a popular traditional food in Kerala, rice is a part of their lives. The ideal rice for Sadya is Kerala Matta, red parboiled rice with a slightly earthy taste and somewhat chewy texture. It absorbs all kinds of curries and sides. 

2. Parippu (Lentil Curry) 

One of the most popular dishes in Kerala cuisine is Parippu, a classic Indian gravy. Guests simply pour one ladle of this tasty, seasoned dal over rice and add a spoon of ghee and papadum. It is an aromatic mung bean dish with split mung beans called ‘moong dal’ and tempered with coconut, cumin seeds, and green chillies. One of the South Indian curries, Parippu, is a must-have. 

3. Sambar 

One of the most common dishes in South Indian curries, Sambar in an Onam Sadhya, is a bit thicker and contains several vegetables, including drumsticks, pumpkin, and okra, cooked with tamarind and coconut gravy. With its dense and rich spicy taste, it is best eaten with rice. 

4. Rasam 

Rasam is a sour, spicy, and warm soup-like preparation usually served as an end-dish thin soup that helps digestion. This tangy soup packed with tamarind juice and tomatoes and dominated by spices is a great way to cleanse and stimulate your palate so that you can  to enjoy Sadhya better. 

5. Avial 

Avial is a delicious, unique food and a colourful preparation of Vegetables in coconut oil buried under a thick coconut, cumin, and green chilli paste. It is rich, zesty, and low on spices to even up the Sadhya. Frequently tagged as the most sought-after travellers’ dish, it represents the quintessence of Keralan food, which is essentially all about coconut. 

6. Thoran (Vegetable Stir-Fry) 

Thoran prepares chopped vegetables such as cabbage, beans, or carrots fried with grated coconut, mustard seeds, and curry leaves. Its characteristic is a crispy texture and subtle taste that doesn’t overpower the palate. It is a perfect foil to the comparatively heavier curries that form part of Sadhya.

7. Kootu Curry

You can’t talk about South Indian curries without talking about Kootu Curry is a delicious black chickpea recipe cooked with yam and plantain and spiced with coconut and black pepper paste. It has a relatively strong taste, which is a little sweet and has some form of spiciness that enriches the meal. 

8. Olan 

A unique food of South India, Olan is a light curry with ash gourd or winter melon and cowpeas in coconut milk infused with coconut oil and curry leaves. It is not overpowering and has a slight sweetness that occasionally gives a breath of fresh air to the tongue amidst all the spicy foods. 

9. Erissery 

One of Kerala’s most popular and unique food preparations, Erissery is a Pumpkin and Black-Eyed Bean Curry simmered with coconut and finished off with toasted coconut. It has a sweet and savoury taste, added a little pepper, and that’s why it is part of the Sadhya spread. 

10. Pachadi (Yogurt-Based Dish) 

Pachadi, generally prepared with pineapple or cucumber, is a side dish that combines fruit flavour with yoghurt and green chilly and has a tangy taste. Finally, it is seasoned with mustard seeds and topped with curry leaves, which gives it a nice crunch and fantastic flavour. 

11. Kichadi

A classic traditional food much like Pachadi, but a little hotter, Kichadi may include ingredients such as bitter gourd or cucumber in yoghurt gravy. It is crunchy with the coolness of yoghurt and gentle heat from tempering spices and can cleanse the palate very effectively after fatty meats or decadent desserts. 

12. Inji Puli (Ginger-Tamarind Chutney) 

Inji Puli is a sour, hot, and slightly sweet chutney prepared with ginger pieces, green chillies, and tamarind. Some spices, especially those used in the Sadhya, are sharp and give the food an appropriate amount of heat and tang.

13. Pulissery (Buttermilk Curry) 

Kada pachakam, pulinji parippu, and pulissery: Pulissery is a bright yellow curry prepared with ripened mango or ash gourd and a slightly tangy liquid made of buttermilk and coconut. It is extremely tasty, sweet, sour, well-spiced, and has that unique fruity taste that compliments the meal. 

14. Kaalan 

Kaalan is a ‘thick curry’ made with yoghurt, coconut, yam, or raw plantain. It also include the taste of ground black pepper and sour curd. As a side dish, it goes perfectly well with the Sadhya. 

15. Payasam 

It is also worth knowing that Payasam, the dessert, is inevitable at any Onam Sadhya. Created from rice, jaggery, and coconut milk, this dish is sweet, and creamy texture, and is the ideal dessert for the festive season. Some common types include Ada Pradhaman, which is made using rice flakes, and Palada, which is made using milk and rice flakes; the two have this very rich  vibrant in flavour. 

16. Upperi (Banana Chips) 

Upperi, or banana chips, is the preparation of a slice of raw banana along with the skin, which is dusted with salt only after frying. This gives crispiness to the Sadhya, which complements the entire Sadhya. It is one of the most mouth-watering eateries in Sadhya. 

17. Sarkara Varatti 

Sarkara Varatti is another version of Upperi, where instead of salt, the chips are coated with jaggery dry ginger and cumin seeds. It is a sweet dish with some spice, and we also get the dry feel of crunchy food items; thus, everyone loves this dish in Sadhya. 

18. Pappadam (Papadum) 

Another staple of the Sadhya is a rice cracker known as Pappadam. It is made from deep-fried black gram flour to create a crispy wafer. It’s soft and fluffy, so you can have it with rice or even on its own as a good snack. 

19. Pickles (Achar) 

Every Onam Sadhya is incomplete without different types of pickles, such as mango, chilli, Raw banana, and lime pickles. These tangy, spicy relishes complement the meal by infusing the experience with small shots of highly penetrating flavours that reduce the thickness of curries. 

20. Payar Thoran 

Payar Thoran is a simple yet delightful dish made from sauteed green grams, grated coconut, green chillies, and curry leaves. This protein-rich stir-fry adds a light, fresh element to the Sadhya, rounding out the meal. 

Onam Sadhya in Chennai 

 

On September 15th, enjoy a specially curated Onam brunch from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. with family and friends at Waterside  Feathers Hotel, Chennai. 

We are offering a specially curated Onam Sadhya  from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. 

Book your table now. 

Contact: 7823977813/ 7823952688

Conclusion 

The Onam Sadhya is more than just a meal—it is an experience that captures the essence of Kerala’s Culinary heritage and history. Each dish has its story, ingredients, and purpose, creating a symphony of tastes that celebrates the season and Onam. May this Onam be filled with prosperity and joy for everyone celebrating it. Onam Ashamakkal!

Frequently asked questions

1. When is Onam celebrated this year?

Onam is celebrated from 6 September to 15 September 2024. It is usually celebrated for 9-10 days. The last day falls on the day of Thiruvonam, which is typically the day majorly celebrated as Onam. 

2. Why is Onam celebrated? 

It is believed that the ancient King Mahabali, who was given the boon to visit his citizens once a year, returns during this period every year.  Onam is celebrated to welcome him. 

3. Where can I have Onam Sadhya in Chennai? 

You can enjoy a feast of Onam Sadhya in Waterside at Feather Hotel Chennai on September 15, 2024 

4. How many dishes are there in an Onam Sadhya? 

While the number of dishes varies from family to family and region to region, ideally, there are 12 to 30 dishes in an Onam Sadhya.  

5. Does the Onam Sadhya consist of Vegetarian food alone? 

Yes, the entire Sadhya is purely vegetarian, and adding non-veg to a sadhya is generally avoided. However, due to its rich and varied flavours, even non-vegetarians thoroughly enjoy Onam Sadhya. 

6. How is an Onam Sadhya traditionally eaten? 

It is Traditionally eaten in a banana leaf, and the food is also served in a particular order.  Most people wear traditional clothes during Onam.