Onavillu

An Onavillu is a bow-shaped musical instrument. Its name may come from Onam, a festival in Kerala where the instrument is used in dances. The Onavillu tradition of Malabar is still being carried on by Thekkepurakkal Kuttiatha and his son Madhu from Malappuram.

Onam is a major annual festival for Keralites residing in and out of the state and 'Onavillu' is played during the celebrations. It is a musical instrument that comprises of bow and strings, which are made from Areca nut wood.

The Onavillu tradition of Malabar is still being carried on by Thekkepurakkal Kuttiatha and his son Madhu from Malappuram, both are experts in making and playing this instrument.

According to them, the main problem faced by them is a lack of raw materials as the demand for Onavillu has been increasing among devotees every year as they believe that it is auspicious to keep it in home and will bring prosperity.