Kozhikode: After the dark days of flood havoc, Malayalis across the world celebrate Onam on Saturday as a festival of survival.
Kerala welcomed Onam without the usual extravagance this year. People avoided the normal colourful celebrations due to the heavy loss caused by the heavy rains and flood.
Meanwhile, the flood relief camps in various places celebrated Onam with songs and dance in the hope of survival. Children prepared floral designs (Pookkalam) in many camps.
Onam special feast also is being prepared in the camps. Presently, about 8 lakh people are staying in the camps in various parts of the state.
Malayalis all over the world have limited the celebrations to a minimal level in harmony to the flood victims. Onam markets also are not active due to the huge damages occurred in the state.