NADANPOOKKAL at Sir Syed College, Taliparamba


As part of the Onam celebrations, a special Exhibition of Traditional Flowers was organized to showcase the rich floral heritage of Kerala. The event aimed to familiarize students with various indigenous flowers, their medicinal importance, and the changing trends in flower usage.

Key Highlights of the Exhibition

  1. Diversity of Flowers on Display
  • A total of 85 types of flowers were exhibited, including many traditionally used in Onam Pookkalam (floral carpets).
  • The exhibition featured native flowers like Thumbapoo (Leucas aspera), Mukkutti (Biophytum sensitivum), Chethi (Ixora), Thechi (Red Ixora), and Kanakambaram (Crossandra infundibuliformis).
  1. Medicinal Importance of Traditional Flowers
  • Several flowers and plants with medicinal properties were highlighted, such as:
  • Mukkutti – Used in Ayurveda for wound healing and fever.
  • Thumbapoo – Known for its antimicrobial properties.
  • Thechi – Used in traditional medicine for skin ailments.
  1. Introduction of Flowers from Other States
  • The exhibition also showcased non-native flowers, which have become popular in floral decorations, including Marigold, Chrysanthemums, and Gerbera.
  • Discussions were held on how these flowers are replacing traditional varieties in Onam Pookkalam.
  1. Impact of Pesticide Usage
  • A session was included to raise awareness about the excessive use of pesticides in flower cultivation, especially in commercially grown flowers.
  • The importance of organic and pesticide-free flowers was emphasized.
  1. Significance of the Exhibition
  • The event helped students reconnect with Kerala’s floral traditions and understand the cultural significance of these flowers in Onam celebrations.
  • It created awareness about medicinal plants and their uses, promoting interest in traditional knowledge.
  • The exhibition also encouraged discussions on sustainable farming practices and the need to protect native plant species.

The event was highly educational and engaging, allowing students to explore the beauty and importance of traditional flowers while understanding the challenges posed by modern agricultural practices.

Programme Photos
Report of the programme  Download