Up to 30 dishes in one meal: Some UAE Restaurants start serving Onam sadyas

Restaurants across the United Arab Emirates are embracing the spirit of the Onam festival by serving traditional sadya meals, elaborate feasts that can comprise up to 30 distinct dishes. This culinary tradition is a cornerstone of Onam, a major harvest festival celebrated predominantly by Malayalis, a community originating from the southern Indian state of Kerala.

The sadya is a grand vegetarian spread, meticulously prepared and served on a banana leaf. It includes a variety of curries, side dishes, pickles, and sweets, each representing different flavors and textures. The sheer number of dishes underscores the celebratory nature of the festival and the importance of communal feasting.

In the UAE, which hosts a significant expatriate population from India, the offering of Onam sadya by restaurants provides a vital connection to cultural heritage for the Malayali community. It also serves as an introduction to Kerala's rich culinary traditions for other residents, contributing to the vibrant multicultural tapestry of the Emirates.