No Onasadya is complete without Payasam. It is an important part of Kerala weddings too. The number of Payasams present for a sadya often becomes fodder for conversation as it denotes how grand the wedding is. Ada Pradhaman, Paal Payasam, Palada and Parippu Payasam top the popularity votes. The texture of the Payasam may be similar to that of pudding or kheer. Most people prefer Payasam with texture like the latter.
Even before booked sadyas became popular, hotels and catering services used to sell Payasam. Payasam fests are popular during Onam. KTDC remains a pioneer in introducing the event. They have been conducting Payasam fests during Onam for more than 30 years. The flavours of payasam include jackfruit, mango, pineapple, carrot and even chocolate. Payasam from KTDC is available at all major hotels in Thiruvananthapuram in half-litre and one-litre containers.
Nowadays, Payasam is a hot topic on social media with advertisements flooding the pages. Digital platforms also have videos on how to make Payasam. Back in the day, catering services were a rarity with people standing in long queues for hours to buy Payasam on the day of Thiruvonam. Nowadays, all it takes is a booking through an app for the Payasam to be delivered at one’s doorsteps.
