Bengaluru woman ruins 'Onam Pookalam' made by children in building's lobby, sparks outrage on internet. Watch

A video capturing a Bengaluru resident deliberately destroying a traditional Pookalam – a floral arrangement created for Onam by children in her housing complex – has sparked widespread outrage online. The incident occurred at Monarch Serenity Apartment Complex in Hegde Nagar, east Bengaluru, and involved a woman named Simi Nair, according to multiple social media posts.

The video, which surfaced on X (formerly Twitter), showed Nair arguing with fellow residents about the placement of the Pookalam in a shared lobby area. Despite being informed that the lobby is a common space, she proceeded to step on and destroy the carefully arranged floral design with her feet. The Pookalam was made by children in the complex to celebrate Onam, a major festival in Kerala that symbolises joy, unity, and community.

The clip, shared with the caption, "Simi Nair, a resident of Monarch Serenity Apartment Complex in Bengaluru, deliberately destroyed a Pookalam created by children in the common area to celebrate Onam," has triggered significant backlash on social media. Many users condemned Nair’s actions, criticising her lack of respect for both the children's efforts and the cultural significance of Onam.

One user commented, “It’s wicked and cheap mentality. Whatever is the reason.
Respect religion and traditions. Which are spread happiness and joy." Another added, "How did she ever think of destroying others' happiness which was not harming her in any way? Not acceptable."

The Pookalam holds a central place in Onam celebrations, traditionally made from vibrant flowers arranged in intricate patterns. It symbolises harmony and is meant to bring communities together during the ten-day festival.