As Onam approaches, preparations are in full swing not only in Kerala but also in Tamil Nadu. In Kerala, there is a surge in demand for flowers and banana leaves used to serve Onasadhya (feast) as the Onam weekend nears. There has been a significant increase in the demand for banana leaves, which are essential for Onam celebrations.

These banana leaves, sourced from Tenkasi and Tirunelveli in Tamil Nadu, are transported to southern districts of Kerala such as Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Pathanamthitta.

Currently, a bundle of 200 banana leaves costs up to Rs 1,500, a sharp rise from Rs 600 per bundle just two weeks ago. Traders anticipate prices could reach Rs 2,000 next week. Each bundle is made by cutting banana leaves into halves.

Special varieties of bananas are grown specifically in regions like Tirunelveli for their leaves, which are valued for their durability and ability to remain fresh for up to four days without wilting. These leaves are renowned for their resistance to tearing.

Low demand for Arali flowers

This year’s Onam celebrations in Kerala will be missing a traditional favourite - the ‘arali’ (oleander) flower, which is brought from Tamil Nadu. Following reports that a woman died after allegedly consuming oleander leaves, and similar incidents involving animals, the demand for the flower has vanished.

Concerns about the flower’s safety have led to a ban by various Devaswom Boards on its use in offerings, edible as well as others. Many temples have also stopped using it, leading to a sharp decline in its supply from Tamil Nadu, a major source. 

Pandian, a flower wholesaler from Sankarankovil in Tamil Nadu - where most oleander flowers for Kerala are sourced - reported that there have been no pre-orders for oleander flowers for Onam this year. In previous years, up to 6,000 kilos of the flower were ordered in advance for Uthradam, the first day of Onam.