My encounter with Mahabali: Deepti Sati

My mom is a Malayali and my dad, a North Indian. Most of my Onam memories are from Mumbai, where I grew up. My mom used to make special Onam dishes along with my favourite dish, sarkara payasam on Thiruvonam and I also invited my friends, home. I even insisted that they come in a proper dress code, Kerala sari!
However, it is when I visited Kerala a few years ago that I got a real taste of the festival, complete with a wonderful memory.I was outside on the streets, and happened to chance upon an Onam procession. All colourful and festive, it was quite a sight. When I saw somebody in a royal costume with a big moustache, I was amazed. It's only after a while that I figured it is King Mahabali! I am someone who has grown up on stories about him but never got a chance to 'meet' him. So my excitement was beyond measure! I joyously clicked away and I still treasure the photos. My encounter with Mahabali will remain a wonderful Onam memory for me.