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The
Harvest Festival - Onam
Onam, the harvest festival is the most popular festival of Kerala. A
festival that celebrates a happy blend of myth and reality, Onam is part
of the cultural repertoire of every Malayalee.
It brings back nostalgic memories, carried on the wings of folklore, of a
bygone Utopian era of prosperity, equality and righteousness, under the
golden reign of Mahabali. Year after year, for centuries, the people of
Kerala, irrespective of caste, creed or colour, join together to welcome
back their vanquished king. The ten-day Onam festival falls in
August-September, coinciding with the beginning of the harvest season.
The Legend - Onam Festival
According to local belief, in a war that took place between the gods and
the demons, the demons won. Deeply hurt by the defeat of the gods, Aditi,
their mother prayed to Lord Vishnu to destroy Mahabali, the demon king.
Consequently, Lord Vishnu, in the guise of a Brahmin boy, Vamanan, went
to Mahabali and asked him to grant him three steps of land. The wish was
granted and Vamanan covered the whole land with his two steps and then he
came back to the King asking him where can he place the third step.
The king to honour his word, offered his head as the third step. Vamanan
pushed Mahabali deep down into the earth. Pleased by his honesty and
generosity, the lord in turn granted him a wish that he could he could
visit his kingdom and people on a particular day once a year.
The Festivity - Onam Festival in Kerala
Preparation of a floral carpet called "Athappookkalam" in front
of houses, from the first day of 'Atham' to the tenth day of 'Thiruvonam'
is part of the festivities, which is a symbolic gesture to welcome King
Mahabali.
The state government conducts Tourism Week celebrations in connection
with Onam, showcasing the gems of Kerala's culture. Onam resonates with
Carnivals, Boat Races, Dance, Music and Feast.
A sumptious meal on plantain leaf and the traditional sweet dish of
Kerala 'Payasam' etc are served in every house The pomp and pageantry of
Onam reflects the Keralite's zest for all the beautiful things of life.