Sanju Shibu is busy getting ready for Onam which will be celebrated on September 15 this year. Being a Malayali from Mumbai, the Mumbaikar says their celebrations are often within their house's four walls, unlike Kerala, where it is a larger celebration. However, that doesn’t stop them from celebrating the festival in a big way. He explains, “We celebrate Onam by first going to the Ayyappa temple closest to us. After that, we make the pookalam. Then the most chaotic and beautiful ritual of making the Sadhya starts. More than eating, it's how everyone chips in to take over one or the other chore is what feels the best. Sadhya, of course, served on a banana leaf wearing 'Onakodi', new clothes you get for Onam, is the most wholesome moment of the day.”

Every year, Keralites all over the country and the world celebrate Onam during this time of the year. This year, it falls on September 15 and the celebrations are going to be bigger and better than always. While in Kerala, Shibu says they also play games like Vadamvali (Tug of war) and Lemon Spoon race, which gets bigger in his hometown. He explains, "In Alleppey, there are tourists from all over the world, who join us for these games from their homestays. The day ends with dance, songs and prize distribution for the winners."