10 songs that definitely belong on every Malayali’s Onam playlist

What is Onam without ‘Thiruvaavaniraavu’ playing in the background, the familiar rhythm of ‘Kuttanadan Punjayile’ filling the room, or an old favourite bringing back memories of Onam mornings?

From timeless ‘Onappattukal’ to film songs that have become festive staples and fresh releases for 2026, here are 10 songs to soundtrack your celebrations.

The classics everyone knows

1. Kuttanadan Punjayile

Music by G. Devarajan, lyrics by Vayalar Ramavarma and sung by K.J. Yesudas and chorus, Kuttanadan Punjayile is the ultimate Kerala boat-race song. Its chant-like vanchipattu rhythm makes it perfect for bringing a group together.

2. Poovili Poovili Ponnonamayi

With lyrics by Sreekumaran Thampi, music by Salil Chowdhury and vocals by KJ Yesudas, ‘Poovili Poovili Ponnonamayi’ remains one of Malayalam music's most loved festive songs.

3. Maveli Naadu Vaneedum Kaalam

No Onam playlist feels complete without this familiar traditional song. Retelling the story of Mahabali and the golden age of equality and prosperity under his rule, it is a song generations of Malayalis have grown up singing.

Film songs that became Onam staples

4. Thiruvaavaniraavu

Composed by Shaan Rahman with lyrics by Manu Manjith, ‘Thiruvaavaniraavu’ is sung by Unni Menon and Sithara Krishnakumar, with additional vocals by Meera Sharma. The song, featured in Vineeth Sreenivasan's ‘Jacobinte Swargarajyam’, has become one of the defining modern songs associated with Onam.

Also Read: Remembering S Janaki through songs that will live on forever

5. Onappaattin Thaalam Thullum

With music by Sabeesh George and lyrics by Brajesh Ramachandran, this upbeat song was made for festive celebrations. Kalyani and chorus feature in the version widely heard on Onam playlists, while the song also has a male version sung by Sabeesh George.

New for this Onam season

6. Onam Mood

The first single from the upcoming film ‘Sahasam’, Onam Mood brings festival sound with live percussion, including chenda and nadaswaram, along with a strong backing-vocal chorus. The song is composed by Bibin Ashok, written by Vinayak Sasikumar and sung by Fejo, Himna Hilari and Hinitha Hilari.

7. Thaalam Trip

Adding a contemporary edge to the playlist is ‘Thaalam Trip’ from the 2026 film DC. Composed and directed by Anirudh Ravichander, the instrumental track works well alongside both traditional Onam songs and newer festive releases.

8. Malayali Onam
Listen to the song here

An independent track featuring Rish NK, Chris Wayne, Himna Hilari and Hinitha Hilary, Malayali Onam takes the festive spirit beyond Kerala and celebrates Malayalis around the world.

9. Thumba (Song of Hope)

Composed by Bala Sarma and directed by Anishkumar, ‘Thumba (Song of Hope)’ takes an experimental route. Blending Raag Maru Bihag with an electronica backdrop, traditional thamburu and a mridangam-led rhythm, it offers a refreshing change from conventional Onappattukal.

10. Malayali Penne & Falling for Deepa - Hiphop Tamizha

For a contemporary change of pace, add ‘Malayali Penne’ and ‘Falling for Deepa’ by Hiphop Tamizha to the mix. Both tracks from ‘Natpe Thunai’ bring a modern energy that works well alongside the traditional favourites.