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A harvest celebration, Onam is one of the biggest festivals for the people of the South Indian state of Kerela. Onam is a secular festival and people from different communities, caste, creed and religion celebrate the occasion together. The festival is celebrated not only by the Hindus but, also by the Muslims and Christians alike. It is a ten day festival of which the first and the last day are of prime significance. The festival is observed in the Malayalee month of Chingam (August-September) and is celebrated with full gusto and fervor. As a harvest festival, it is a great event for the farmers who celebrate the reward of nature on this day.
Festivals in India have their own historical stories that echo the profundity of the Indian culture and tradition. The festival of Onam is no exception to this rule. It has a number of interesting legends behind its origin. There is the legend of King Mahabali, the legend of boat Palliodam, legend of the vanishing boy and others.
The festival is held particularly to mark the homecoming of the legendary King Mahabali. King Mahabali was one of the most beloved and respected King of Kerela. He devoted his time and effort to look after the welfare of his people. It is believed that Mahabali returns to Kerela on the auspicious occasion of Onam to pay a visit to his people. Onam is thus, celebrated in his honor.
The festival of Onam is celebrated with great enthusiasm and people engage themselves in merry-making, feats, songs, dances and games. People start their preparation months back. Cleaning and decorating their homes form an important part of this preparation. They wear new clothes and prepare delicious sweets and dishes. People keep the ‘Pookalam’- a flower mat at the entrance of their door to welcome King Mahabali. A grand feast is held in the evening, which is known as ‘Onasadya’ and it is accompanied by other traditional rituals and customs. The feast is the most impressive part of the festival of Onam.
The boat race is another attractive aspect of this festival. It is known as ‘Vallamkali’. It is an interesting game where thousands of men row the boats along with the beat of drums and cymbals. The sport is not only challenging but, they hold immense religious and traditional significance. People compete with each other to win the race. The ‘Vallamkali’ forms a spectacular sight and it draws a large number of tourists from India and abroad.
Last Updated On: 2011/06/28
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