Why is it celebrated?
Onam is the annual harvest festival celebrated in the state of Kerela. This festival lasts for 10 days, and is marked by several fun-filled activities like snake boat racing, banquet lunches, and Puli Kali.
Importance:
Onam marks the return of the great emperor Mahabali, and is celebrated for paying homage to the Vamana avatar of Lord Vishnu. Long ago, a demon king Mahabali ruled Kerela. He was a devoted believer of Lord Vishnu. Mahabali was a just and benevolent ruler, but had only one flaw, ego. To remove this weakness Lord Vishnu took form of a dwarf Brahmin by the name of Vamana and came to earth. King Mahabali, being air-headed, asked Vamana to demand for anything and he would give it to him. Lord Vishnu asked for just the amount of land which will be covered by his 3 footsteps, to which he agreed. Lord Vishnu then covered the entire sky, and the netherworld. Realizing that Vamana would destroy the earth if he took the last step, Mahabali presented his head to the Brahmin instead. Thus, he was freed from the succession of birth and death that is achieved moksha and learned a lesson. On this day, the people of Kerela pay tribute to their beloved king Mahabali.
How is it celebrated?
Many festivities take place in the duration of 10 days. The people of Kerela indulge in merriment so that the King Mahabali is happy seeing his subjects prosper. Each house erects two pyramids in the courtyard, depicting lord Vishnu and Mahabali. These pyramids are worshipped with fruits and flowers each day.
In Thrissur, a grand procession of elephants is taken out. Kathakali dancers enact stories of historical importance to revive their culture. The snake boat race of Onam is quite famous across the country. Performers perform the Tiger dance, known as Kuduvakali. Delicacies like aviyalm, payasam, and banana erucherry and tomato pachadi are prepared.
At the end of Onam, a magnificent display of fireworks also takes place.
When is it celebrated?
Onam is celebrated in Thiruvonam Nakshatra, in the month of Chingam each year.
Where is it celebrated?
The festival is celebrated in the state of Kerela, India.