Gifting Onakkodi Abroad—A Heartfelt Tradition Connecting Family and Roots
For Malayalis living abroad, Onam isn't just a festival—it's a bridge to home, heritage, and heartfelt reunions. One cherished tradition that resonates deeply across continents is gifting Onakkodi—new clothes symbolizing respect, renewal, and celebration.
- Onakkodi: More Than Just New Clothes
Onakkodi, or “new cloth,” derives from Ona (Onam) and Kodi (cloth), referring to the ceremonial attire gifted during Onam. Traditionally, elders present kasavu sarees, mundus, or matching garments to younger family members—a gesture symbolizing blessings and prosperity, As Kerala Tourism notes, gifting Onakkodi is “just as important as making the Pookkalam”—both integral elements of Onam
2. Onakkodi Abroad: A Cultural Touchstone
For expatriate Malayalis—from the UAE to the UK—the practice of gifting Onakkodi serves as an emotional anchor to ancestral traditions. Across global Malayali communities, Onam is celebrated with vibrant feasts, cultural performances, and family gatherings that mirror those back home
Receiving Onakkodi during a trip back home transcends the material—it's a tangible expression of care, tradition, and belonging. Especially for younger generations raised abroad, such moments forge meaningful connections to their heritage.
3. Style Meets Sentiment: UBeShopArab’s Clothing Collection
The UBeShopArab clothing line beautifully merges tradition with accessibility, making it a thoughtful source for Onakkodi gifts:
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Onam Special Sree Krishna Mural Print Shirts – For men, these shirts add festive flair rooted in cultural themes.
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Kasavu-style Sarees and Mundu – Classic yet accessible, ideal as ceremonial Onakkodi.
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Printed Dhothis & Elegantly Draped Sarees – Stylish options that honor tradition while offering modern comfort.
These items, priced thoughtfully (ranging roughly between AED 75–150), offer an easy and meaningful way to procure Onakkodi when abroad
4. The Sentimental Value of Gifting Onakkodi from Abroad
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Emotional Depth: Presents that reflect tradition carry richer emotional weight—symbolizing love, unity, and cultural pride.
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Effort and Thoughtfulness: Sending or bringing Onakkodi from outside Kerala shows forethought and connection.
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Shared Celebration: Matching Onakkodi enables families—regardless of location—to celebrate Onam in unity, blending personal style with heritage.
Gifting Onakkodi abroad is more than a festival practice—it's a heartfelt link to heritage and to home. Whether it’s the rhythmic drape of a kasavu saree, the pride in a mural-print shirt, or the joy of seeing everyday clothes transformed into something special, Onakkodi bridges distances and generations.
Would you like ideas for personalizing Onakkodi gifts—say, matching family pairs, custom embroidery, or combining with festive accessories? I'm here to help make your Onam even more special