Keralam is looking for Sadya emoticons, a global eye brand for a traditional feast

Sadya is a hallmark of festivals as well as various religious ceremonies and wedding celebrations in Kerala. Image for representation. | Photo credit: Special arrangement

Although dieticians are a little apprehensive about the high calorie content of the traditional Sadya (feast) of Kerala, a grand vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf containing around 26 to 28 dishes, Kerala Tourism is exploring the possibility of turning the delicious Sadya of the State into an international brand.

Kerala Tourism asked Apple CEO John Ternus, who assumed office on September 1, to include an emoji representing Sadya Keralama on the iPhone. The request was made through Kerala Tourism’s official social media link in response to Mr. Ternus’s post after assuming office.

Speaking to The Hindu, a senior bureaucrat said, “We are not sure if Apple would comply with such a request from Kerala Tourism. Given the growing appeal of Sadya, especially during festival seasons like Onam across the world, we thought it would be a wise move to make such a request to Apple’s CEO.”

Buzz on social media

Though Kerala Tourism’s petition has not yet elicited any response from the CEO, it has created a stir on social media platforms, with the move garnering widespread support from netizens as Sadya is a hallmark of festivals as well as various religious ceremonies and wedding celebrations in the state.

According to James Kodianthara, a tourism expert and former chairman of the Kerala chapter of the Indian Association of Travel Agents (IATO), Sadya is definitely a great product from Kerala that could be marketed as an international brand worldwide.

“There are many examples in the world like steak in American cuisine and pork knee in Czech cuisine that have brought fame and international recognition to destinations. Perhaps after Kathakali and the snake boat regatta, Sadya will bring Kerala into the international limelight,” said Mr. Kodianthara.

Main dishes

Many airlines serving South India serve Sadya on board their flights, especially during festival occasions like Onam. The feast includes dishes such as Kaalan made from coconut; Cucumber Pachadi, Dressed Salad; and Puli Inji, a sweet and spicy ginger-based chutney; along with Payasams and other dishes.

Meanwhile, Dr Anupa Jose, a nutritionist attached to a private clinic, said that though Sadya is an integral part of Keralites’ lives, the amount of rice served on a banana leaf should be reduced, given the high calorie content of the traditional feast. Instead, a curry made with pulses and lentils should be given equal attention at the feast to keep total calories under 1,000 while still providing plenty of protein.

Published – 05 Sep 2026 07:10 IST