Onam Festival: A Celebration of Harvest and New Beginnings
Onam is a vibrant and joyous festival that is celebrated with great enthusiasm in the southern Indian state of Kerala. It is a ten-day long festival that usually falls in the months of August or September, and is considered to be the most important festival of the state. The festival is all about celebrating the harvest season and welcoming the return of the mythical king Mahabali, who is believed to visit his subjects during this time of the year. Onam is a cultural extravaganza that is filled with vibrant colors, mouth-watering feasts, and lively festivities, making it a must-see event for anyone visiting Kerala during this time of the year.
Onam is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and is believed to have started over 5000 years ago when King Mahabali ruled over the state of Kerala and was known for his generosity and kind-heartedness. Legend has it that Lord Vishnu, disguised as a dwarf, visited King Mahabali and asked for three steps of land. The king, known for his benevolence, granted the request but was tricked by Vishnu who took control of the entire universe with his three steps. However, before leaving the earth, Vishnu granted King Mahabali the wish to visit his people once a year, and this is believed to be the reason behind the Onam festival.
Onam is a ten-day long festival that is filled with various rituals and celebrations. The festivities start with Atham, the first day of Onam, when the clay idols of King Mahabali and his beloved wife, Vamana, are made in the courtyards of houses across Kerala. The excitement and preparations for the festival increase with each passing day, and on the tenth and final day, Thiruvonam, the celebrations reach their peak.
The highlight of the Onam festival is the grand feast known as Onasadya, which is prepared on Thiruvonam. The elaborate feast consists of a variety of vegetarian dishes, served on a banana leaf, and is a must-try for anyone visiting Kerala during this time of the year. Apart from the sumptuous food, Onam also offers various traditional games and competitions such as boat races, flower arrangements, and elephant processions.
The festival also witnesses the spectacular Pulikali or Tiger Dance. Men are painted in bright colors, dressed as tigers, and dance to the tunes of traditional music, showcasing their agility and strength. Women also participate in the festival by performing the graceful Kaikottikali or clap dance, where they form circles and sway to the folk songs of Kerala.
The entire state of Kerala is adorned with beautiful flower decorations known as Pookalams, and it is a common sight to see people dressed in their traditional attire, exchanging gifts, and spreading joy and happiness during this time of the year. The festival of Onam is not just about celebrating the harvest season, but it is also a time to strengthen familial bonds and spread love, peace, and harmony amongst the community.
In conclusion, Onam is a beautiful and culturally rich festival that celebrates the bountiful harvest and the return of King Mahabali. It is a time to celebrate new beginnings, enjoy mouth-watering food, and witness the vibrant traditions and customs of the state of Kerala. So, make sure to add this colorful event to your bucket list and experience the magic of Onam for yourself!
Onam is a ten-day long festival that falls in the months of August or September in Kerala.
The festival is all about celebrating the harvest season and welcoming the return of the mythical king Mahabali.
According to Hindu mythology, King Mahabali ruled over Kerala over 5000 years ago and was known for his generosity and kindness.
Legend has it that Lord Vishnu, disguised as a dwarf, took control of the universe with three steps, but before leaving the earth, granted Mahabali the wish to visit his people once a year, leading to the Onam festival.
Onam is filled with various rituals and celebrations, including the grand feast called Onasadya, where a variety of vegetarian dishes are served on a banana leaf.
The festival also sees traditional games, competitions and performances such as boat races, flower arrangements, tiger dance, and clap dance.
The entire state of Kerala is beautifully decorated with flower arrangements called Pookalams, and people dress in traditional attire to celebrate the festival.
Onam is not just a celebration of harvest, but it is also a time to strengthen familial bonds and spread love and harmony amongst the community.
This vibrant and culturally rich festival is a must-see for anyone visiting Kerala during the months of August or September.
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