Today is Onam, a Hindu Festival celebrated by Malayalam speakers around the world, it’s popular in the state of Kerala, India. Wiki says Onam “marks the commemoration of Vamana avatara of Vishnu and the subsequent homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali who Malayalees consider as their King“. I didn’t notice the significance of the day till I was seated in a restaurant looking to order my lunch. I was in Bengaluru Airport seated in MTC (Malgudi Tiffin Centre) Restaurant before my flight for Chennai, the waiter suggested I try their special for the day – Onam Sadya instead of their regular lunch. Being a person who listens to his tummy more than his brain, I immediately said yes. I didn’t go wrong, I feasted on a heavenly food that I have ever had in an Airport, which is known around the world for their worst tasting food.
Sadya (meaning banquet) is a vegetarian meal served traditionally in Banana leaf (just like in my home state Tamil Nadu). There were many dishes served, I remember the Roti, Sambhar, Rasam, Pulissery, Aviyal, Thoran, Uniappam, Parippu Vada, Nenthraka Chips, Sarkaravaratti (Sweet Banana) Chips, Pradhaman, Payasam and Rice (white and half brown).
Onam Sadya in Bengaluru Airport MTC Restaurant