Malayalis around the world have geared up to celebrate Onam in all its essence. The ten-day-long festival begins on August 15 and ends on August 25. Like any other Indian festival, food, decorations, sweets, dance forms are a core part of the celebrations. People come together, meet friends and relatives and celebrate the harvest festival with much zeal and enthusiasm. They clean their houses, wear new clothes and visit friends and relatives. Pookalam an arrangement of flowers is a part and parcel of Onam. Malayalis make Pookalam in front of their houses or the courtyard during Onam. As it is believed that King Mahabali visits his subjects on Onam, the elaborate designs are made to welcome him.

Pookalams are made in the morning on the day of Onam. While in cities due to lack of time and space, people limit the tradition only on the day of Thiruvonam, people otherwise make the flower arrangement on all the ten days. Petal of fresh flowers and leaves are used in pookalam. Members of the family or friends come together to make the artwork. People also participate in Pookalam competitions showcasing their talents. And as Onam has begun, we have curated a list of Pookalam you can try this Onam. Onam 2018: Thrissur's Swaraj Round Gears Up for Pulikali or Tiger Dance, Kerala’s Famous Folk Art Form

Here are some Pookalam tutorial videos to brighten up your Onam celebrations:

This is quite a simple and beautiful one and won't require much time. With flower petals of four different colours and some leaves, you can make this at home. The lighted lamp in the middle of the pookalam accentuates its look.

While marigolds and dahlias are generally used in pookalams, the rose petals in this one gives it a different look and feel. It is not only easy to make but also requires little time.

Making of a Pookalam is generally a family affair in most Malayalee houses and everyone willingly participates. This one again is simple to make and not time-consuming. Onam 2018 Date: Story, Significance, Celebrations Related to Kerala's Harvest Festival

This is the easiest of all and does not compromise on the look. If you are in a hurry and cannot invest much time in making of a Pookalam, then here is your way out. You need not peel off the petals and simply use the flowers as it is! We hope these designs come in handy and help you celebrate Onam in all its essence. We wish all our readers a very Happy Onam!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 15, 2018 02:04 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).