From payasam to Vallam Kali: Anand Mahindra shares his Onam memory from Ooty that taught him a lesson in unity

For Anand Mahindra, Onam brings back memories that go far beyond the festive celebrations. The industrialist recently recalled his days at a boarding school in Ooty, where the Onam Sadhya and especially payasam were eagerly awaited. But another image stands out for him: Vallam Kali, Kerala’s spectacular snake boat races. Watching hundreds of oars move together in perfect rhythm, Mahindra found a simple yet powerful reminder of what people can accomplish when they work together.

Anand Mahindra recalls his Onam memories from Ooty

Anand Mahindra took to X to share his memories of celebrating Onam during his boarding-school days in Ooty. He said that for many people, the most vivid memory associated with Onam is the traditional Sadhya. Mahindra said this was certainly true for him as well, recalling how students at his boarding school eagerly looked forward to the festive feast. But among all the dishes served during the celebration, one stood out for him.

Payasam was the highlight of the Onam feast

Mahindra particularly remembered the anticipation surrounding payasam, the traditional sweet dish that is an important part of an Onam Sadhya. Recalling his school days, he wrote that they eagerly awaited the Onam feast and, “above all, the payasam.” The memory offers a glimpse into the kind of childhood associations that festivals can create. For Mahindra, Onam was connected not just with tradition but also with the excitement of celebrating it with fellow students at boarding school.

Vallam Kali offers Anand Mahindra a bigger Onam lesson

While Sadhya and payasam brought back personal memories, Mahindra said the most vibrant image of Onam for him is Vallam Kali. Kerala’s traditional snake boat races are known for their long, narrow boats moving swiftly through the state’s waterways, powered by teams of rowers. Mahindra described the boats as “magnificent, arrow-like snake boats” slicing through Kerala’s waters.

But it was not simply the spectacle of the races that caught his attention. For him, the sight of hundreds of rowers moving together represented something much larger.

‘Hundreds of oars. But one rhythm. One direction’

Mahindra summed up the image with a striking observation: “Hundreds of oars. But one rhythm. One direction.” The rowers may be individuals, but their movements have to be coordinated. Every person needs to maintain the same rhythm and move towards the same destination for the boat to surge forward.

For Mahindra, that makes Vallam Kali more than a traditional sporting spectacle. It becomes a visual lesson in teamwork and collective effort.

Anand Mahindra’s Onam message about working together

The businessman said the snake boats serve as “a spectacular reminder” of what people can achieve when they pull together. The message fits naturally with the visual drama of Vallam Kali. A single rower cannot produce the same momentum as hundreds working in coordination. The strength comes from collective effort, shared direction and timing.

Mahindra ended his post by extending his Onam wishes to everyone.