35 Onam Gift ideas to Enchant your Loved Ones in 2023
Onam gift ideas for the joyous festival right around the corner. Let’s to embrace the spirit of togetherness and gratitude,
As we prepare to welcome this vibrant occasion, it's the perfect time to express our appreciation for our loved ones and also the hard work and dedication of our incredible employees.
Just like the colorful pookalam flower arrangements, selecting the ideal Onam gifts requires creativity and thoughtfulness.
Here, we embark on a journey through a tapestry of unique and thoughtful Onam gift ideas that not only celebrate the essence of the festival but also convey our gratitude to the pillars of our organization.
Let’s explore and find the perfect gift for our perfect ones.
15 Onam gift ideas
Explore our curated collection of 15 thoughtful Onam gift ideas that capture the spirit of this vibrant festival. From traditional attire and exquisite flower arrangements to delectable sweets and decorative items, our list has something for everyone.
Here are 15 Onam gift ideas:
- Sadhya kit
- Kerala saree or mundu
- Traditional artwork
- Plant a banana tree
- Cooking class or workshop
- Onam flower arrangement kit
- Traditional Kerala jewelry
- Cultural experience voucher
- Kerala handicrafts
- Onam-themed apparel
- Customized Onam recipe book
- Virtual Onam celebration kit
- Onam spa and relaxation set
- Onam treasure hunt
- Storytelling evening
1. Sadhya kit
Put together a traditional Sadhya meal kit with all the necessary ingredients and recipes for preparing a delicious Onam feast at home. Include items like rice, various curries, pickles, and payasam (dessert). This gift allows the recipient to experience the essence of Onam's culinary delights.
2. Kerala saree or mundu
Gift a beautiful Kerala saree for women or a traditional Mundu for men. These garments are unique to Kerala and are often worn during festive occasions. Choose vibrant colors and intricate designs to capture the festive spirit.
3. Traditional artwork
Gift a piece of traditional Kerala artwork such as a mural painting, Kathakali mask, or a piece of intricate wood carving. These art forms are deeply rooted in Kerala's culture and would make for a meaningful and artistic gift.
4. Plant a banana tree
Since Onam is associated with the harvest season, consider gifting a live banana tree sapling. This symbolic gift represents prosperity and growth, and it's a sustainable choice that contributes to the environment as well.
5. Cooking class or workshop
Arrange for a virtual or in-person cooking class focused on Kerala cuisine. This gift allows the recipient to learn to prepare authentic Kerala dishes under the guidance of a skilled chef, creating lasting memories and skills.
6. Onam flower arrangement kit
Put together a kit with a variety of fresh flowers typically used for creating Pookalam (floral rangoli). Include flowers like marigold, chrysanthemums, and roses, along with instructions for creating intricate floral designs.
7. Traditional Kerala jewelry
Gift a piece of traditional Kerala jewelry, such as a Kasu Mala (coin necklace) or Nagapadam (serpent motif necklace). These pieces are not only beautiful but also culturally significant.
8. Cultural experience voucher
Provide a voucher for a cultural experience related to Kerala, such as a Kathakali dance performance or a visit to a traditional Ayurvedic spa. This allows the recipient to immerse themselves in the cultural richness of Kerala.
9. Kerala handicrafts
Choose from a range of Kerala handicrafts like coconut shell carvings, coir products, or brass utensils. These items showcase the craftsmanship of the region and can be lovely decorative pieces.
10. Onam-themed apparel
Gift clothing with Onam-themed prints or designs. This could include t-shirts, scarves, or stoles featuring Pookalam patterns, Kathakali faces, or other iconic Onam motifs.
11. Customized Onam recipe book
Create a personalized recipe book filled with traditional Onam recipes and family favorites. Include space for the recipient to add their own notes and adaptations, making it a cherished keepsake.
12. Virtual Onam celebration kit
Put together a virtual celebration kit that includes curated playlists of traditional Onam songs, virtual Pookalam design challenges, and instructions for online games like "Onam Tambola" to help the recipient celebrate Onam digitally with friends and family.
13. Onam spa and relaxation set
Curate a relaxation kit with aromatic oils, handmade soaps, and soothing bath salts inspired by Kerala's natural ingredients. Add in a comfortable traditional Kerala attire for lounging, creating a spa-like experience at home.
14. Onam treasure hunt
Design a unique Onam-themed treasure hunt game. Create clues and riddles that lead the recipient to different parts of their house, with each clue offering insights into Kerala's culture, history, and traditions. The final prize could be a special Onam-themed gift.
15. Storytelling evening
Plan an evening of storytelling where the gift giver shares traditional Onam stories and legends with the recipient. This could be done virtually or in person, and it's a wonderful way to pass down cultural tales and bond over shared narratives.
10 Onam gift ideas for employees
Discover the spirit of Onam with these 10 delightful gift ideas for your valued employees. From traditional treats to modern comforts, our curated list ensures a blend of cultural richness and thoughtful gestures to celebrate this festive season.
Here are 10 Onam gift ideas for employees:
- Customized Onam recipe kit
- Onam plant decor set
- Virtual cultural experience
- Ethnic wear vouchers
- Wellness and relaxation hamper
- Onam art and craft kit
- Virtual cook-off challenge
- Onam-inspired desk decor
- Cultural exchange session
- Onam puzzle and game set
1. Customized Onam recipe kit
Put together a package containing all the essential ingredients and recipes for a traditional Onam meal. This thoughtful gift will allow your employees to experience the joy of cooking and enjoying Onam dishes in the comfort of their homes.
2. Onam plant decor set
Give the gift of greenery with a set of potted plants or indoor garden kits. Choose plants that are easy to care for and symbolize prosperity, like money plants or marigolds, to align with the festive spirit of Onam.
3. Virtual cultural experience
Organize a virtual cultural event that allows your employees to explore and appreciate the beauty of Onam traditions. This could include virtual dance performances, cooking classes, or even a virtual tour of the celebrations in Kerala.
4. Ethnic wear vouchers
Provide your employees with vouchers to purchase traditional Onam clothing or accessories. This way, they can dress up in festive attire and celebrate Onam in style.
5. Wellness and relaxation hamper
As Onam is a time of renewal and positivity, consider creating a wellness hamper that includes items like aromatic oils, herbal teas, scented candles, and relaxation tools. This gift promotes well-being and a sense of rejuvenation.
6. Onam art and craft kit
Provide your employees with a creative outlet by gifting them an art and craft kit inspired by Onam. Include materials like watercolors, brushes, and paper with instructions to create their own Onam-themed artwork.
7. Virtual cook-off challenge
Organize a virtual cooking competition where employees can showcase their culinary skills by preparing traditional Onam dishes. Offer prizes for different categories such as presentation, creativity, and taste.
8. Onam-inspired desk decor
Send your employees a set of beautifully designed desk decor items that incorporate Onam motifs, colors, and patterns. This could include items like desk organizers, mousepads, or coasters.
9. Cultural exchange session
Arrange a virtual session where employees can share and learn about each other's cultural backgrounds and traditions. This helps foster a sense of inclusivity and understanding among your diverse workforce.
10. Onam puzzle and game set
Put together a collection of Onam-themed puzzles, crosswords, and brain-teaser games. This engaging gift can provide a fun and relaxing way for your employees to celebrate the festival.
10 Onam gift ideas for coworkers
Embrace the spirit of Onam and spread joy among your coworkers with thoughtful gifts. Celebrate this festive season by gifting traditional items like exquisite flower arrangements, fragrant incense sets, or handmade crafts that capture the essence of Kerala's culture.
Here are 10 Onam gift ideas for coworkers:
- Spice sampler set
- Handcrafted planters
- Cultural workshop
- Customized recipe book
- Local artisan crafts
- Virtual cultural performance
- Cooking class
- Personalized pookalam kit
- Onam-inspired stationery
- Charitable Onam donation in employee’s name
1. Spice sampler set
Onam is all about delicious food, so why not give your coworkers a set of unique spice blends? This could include traditional Kerala spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg, along with some lesser-known spices that can add an interesting twist to their cooking.
2. Handcrafted planters
Gift your coworkers hand-painted or handcrafted planters featuring vibrant designs inspired by Onam. Choose plants that are easy to care for, like succulents or air plants, to add a touch of greenery to their workspace.
3. Cultural workshop
Organize a virtual workshop where your coworkers can learn about the traditions, dances, and art forms associated with Onam. This interactive experience can be both educational and enjoyable, allowing them to immerse themselves in the festive spirit.
4. Customized recipe book
Compile a recipe book featuring traditional Onam dishes along with modern twists. Include personal notes and anecdotes to make it feel more special. This way, your coworkers can explore cooking these dishes and share the joy of Onam with their families.
5. Local artisan crafts
Support local artisans by gifting your coworkers handmade crafts from Kerala. This could include items like intricately designed wooden sculptures, colorful Kathakali masks, or beautifully woven textiles that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region.
6. Virtual cultural performance
Arrange for a virtual performance of traditional Kerala art forms like Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, or Theyyam. This unique experience will allow your coworkers to enjoy the cultural richness of Onam from the comfort of their homes.
7. Cooking class
Instead of a recipe book, why not gift your coworkers a virtual cooking class where they can learn to prepare a traditional Onam meal? This hands-on experience will let them engage with the festive cuisine firsthand.
8. Personalized pookalam kit
Put together a kit that includes colorful flower petals, rangoli powders, and design templates for creating Pookalams (floral rangoli) at home. It's a wonderful way to bring a touch of Onam's artistic flair to their living spaces.
9. Onam-inspired stationery
Gift a set of stationery featuring Onam-themed designs, including notepads, pens, and planners. This way, your coworkers can infuse a bit of the festive spirit into their work routine.
10. Charitable Onam donation in employee’s name
In the spirit of giving, consider making a donation to a Kerala-based charity or relief organization in your coworkers' names. This gesture reflects the values of Onam, which emphasizes generosity and community support.
Conclusion
As the petals of Onam unfold and the festive fervor fills the air, may these gift ideas serve as tokens of our appreciation, reflecting the warmth and respect we hold for each member of our work family.
Whether it's the timeless elegance of a traditional sari or the delectable sweetness of homemade payasam, each gift embodies the bond we share and the value we place on their contributions.
Let this Onam be a reminder of the unity and strength that propels us forward, as we continue to work together towards success.
Wishing everyone a joyous Onam filled with prosperity, happiness, and the joy of giving and receiving.