Kalpetta eatery continues 12-year tradition of serving free Onam sadhya
text_fields
Photo: Express
Kalpetta: As the scent of avial and sambar filled the air near Civil Station, long queues formed outside a small yet renowned eatery known for its unique tradition.
Inside the 70-year-old “Lunch House,” owner Vinod was seen moving quickly between tables, serving payasam and pickles to customers with a smile. While most restaurants across Wayanad charged between ₹350 and ₹500 for an Onam sadhya, this establishment continued to serve the festive feast free of cost.
For the past 12 years, the Lunch House has upheld this tradition, which was started by Vinod’s late father, Kumaran. Vinod explained that his father firmly believed no one should miss out on celebrating Onam because of financial constraints. After Kumaran’s passing, Vinod chose to carry on the practice as a gesture of gratitude towards their loyal customers, TNIE reported.
On Wednesday, the small eatery transformed into a lively festive space as about 450 people — including daily wage workers, families, and office-goers — gathered to enjoy a traditional Onam sadhya. Guests sat in rows, relishing 12 authentic dishes, including the sweet payasam, while owner Vinod personally ensured that everyone was served, a gesture locals say reflects the true spirit of Onam.
Kalpetta MLA T. Siddique attended the event as the chief guest and joined the community feast.
Vinod shared that the initiative, which started on a small scale, has grown significantly over the years and is now a tradition the entire town eagerly anticipates. Despite the rising prices of vegetables, rice, and oil, he said they never considered stopping the practice, as it represents their way of preserving the essence of Onam.
Locals echoed his views, describing the event as the “real Onam,” where people from all walks of life come together to eat without barriers. For many, the Lunch House has become a reminder that the true meaning of the festival lies not in expensive celebrations but in kindness, sharing, and togetherness.
