Onam is a major Hindu festival celebrated mainly in the state of Kerala. This lively crop festival is a reflection of tradition, devotion and communal harmony. Every year, the Malayali community around the world inspects the ten-day celebrations with floral arrangements, detailed feasts, traditional dances and temple ceremonies.
The origin of Onam has reverence for the mythological king Mahabali, whose visit is considered to bring prosperity and happiness to their people. This festival also describes the presence of Vamana avatar of Lord Vishnu and the symbolic return of Emperor Mahabali in his kingdom.
In 2025, the Onam Festival is expected to be more colorful and inclusive than ever with cultural shows, music performances and decorative performances at various places. This season offers a correct opportunity to experience Kerala’s rich cultural heritage.
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What is Thiruvonam?
Thiruvonam is the most important and auspicious day of the ten-day Onam Festival. It is believed that on this day, King Mahabali goes to meet his people Netherworld. The day represents unity, optimism and deep relations between a great ruler and his subjects.
On thiruvonam, people get up quickly to clean and decorate their homes. Complex floral designs, known as Pukkalam, are arranged at the entrance. Families wear clothes in traditional dress and engage in cultural festivals, including folk dances such as Thiruvathirkali and various traditional games.
Vatha avatar of Lord Vishnu
Vaamana ONAM, the fifth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, plays an important role in legend. The word “Vamana” translates “dwarf” into Sanskrit. According to mythology, Lord Vishnu took the form of a small Brahmin boy to subdue the powerful demon king Mahabali.
When Vamana requested the liberal king for three pace land, Mahabali agreed. With his first two stages, Vamana spread the earth and the sky. For the third step, he put his foot on Mahabali’s head, pushed him into the underworld. However, influenced by his devotion and humility, Vishnu gave Mahabali a boon to meet his people once every year – an incident is celebrated as ONAM.
When is Onam celebrated?
Oman is celebrated in Malayalam month of Chingam, which falls in the Gregorian calendar between August and September. The festival begins at the meaning, the day the Atham Nakshatra appears, and continues for ten days, ending in thiruvonam.
This festival celebrates abundance, equality and cultural pride of Kerala. According to mythology, King Mahabali’s rule was marked by justice and prosperity. His return during Onam reminds of those golden times and is welcomed with joy, reverence and gratitude.
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