Young docs in bid to redefine 'rotund' Maveli

The campaign against lifestyle diseases aims to reimagine the legendary 'pot-bellied' king, envisioning him as fit and healthy

- ABHILASH CHANDRAN @Kottayam

FOR Malayalis around the world, the image of a rotund man with a prominent moustache, holding an umbrella made from palm fronds, serves as a cherished symbol of Onam. The figure represents the mythical king Mahabali aka Maveli, who, as the legend goes, visits his beloved subjects on the day of Thiruvonam.

Maveli's traditional portrayal — as a man with a notable pot belly — was meant to embody the spirit of abundance and property. However, this characterisation raises an intriguing question: Should Maveli, a revered ruler known for his courage in the three mythical worlds of heaven, earth and underworld (pathalam), be shown as a rotund figure?