What is Onam?
Onam is a 10-day harvest festival in Kerala, celebrated from Atham to Thiruvonam. It is mainly observed by Hindus, based on the myth that on Thiruvonam, King Mahabali visits his kingdom to bless his people with wealth and health. In 2024, based on the Panchangam, Onam will be celebrated on September 15th (as per the English calendar).
History of Thiruvonam
King Mahabali, who ruled over Thrikkakara, was a kind, honest, and beloved ruler. He was the great-great-grandson of Hiranyakashyapu and the grandson of Prahlada. Hiranyakashyapu was a demonic ruler, but his son, Prahlada, was a devoted follower of Lord Vishnu. Prahlada always prayed for his father’s redemption, despite his demonic behavior. Hiranyakashyapu, angered by his son’s devotion, tried to kill him, but Lord Vishnu saved Prahlada.
The Devas (gods) were jealous of Mahabali because his people loved him more than they loved the Devas. They complained to Lord Vishnu, asking him to defeat and remove Mahabali. However, Vishnu refused because Mahabali was a just and good ruler. Instead, Vishnu took the form of Vamana, his 5th avatar, and approached Mahabali as a child.
Vamana asked Mahabali for three feet of land. Being generous, Mahabali agreed. Suddenly, Vamana began to grow in size. With his first step, he covered the heavens, and with his second step, he covered the underworld. There was no more space for the third step. Realizing that Vamana was Lord Vishnu, Mahabali asked for one final boon, the ability to visit his people once a year. Lord Vishnu granted this wish, and now, people celebrate Onam on Thiruvonam to welcome Mahabali.
10 Days of Onam in Kerala
- ATHAM
- CHITHIRA
- CHOTHI
- VISHAKHAM
- ANEEZHAM
- THRIKETA
- MOOLAM
- POORADAM
- UTHRADAM
Celebration of Onam in Kerala
Rituals
The celebrations begin with Atham. People make flower rangolis called “Pookalam” with vibrant colors, and this continues for all ten days. On the 9th day (Uthradam), the day is known as “Uthradapachil,” which is the last day of preparation to welcome Mahabali. On Thiruvonam, a special morning pooja is performed, for which items like Thrikkakara Appan (a clay figure), Thumbappoo flowers, and other offerings are needed.
Family Get-Togethers
After the pooja, families gather to share onam wishes, take photos, and prepare the traditional feast called “Onam Sadhya.” They also play various Onam games. There is a tradition of giving new clothes, called “Onam Kodi,” to relatives.
Pulikali
Pulikkali is one of the main attractions during Onam, especially in Thrissur. It is a folk art form where participants paint their bodies like tigers and dance to the rhythm of drums. The theme revolves around a tiger hunt, creating a visual spectacle for the audience. Pulikali usually takes place on the 4th day after Onam.
Pookalam Competitions
Many communities organize Pookalam (flower rangoli) competitions. Teams are divided into groups, and they have to make intricate Pookalam designs. The team that creates the most beautiful and accurate design, following the guidelines, wins the competition.
Onam Song Competitions
Just like the Pookalam competition, groups also participate in Onam song competitions. Teams sing songs related to Onam, and the best group is declared the winner.
Conclusion
Thiruvonam – A celebration without caste and religion differences . After the 10th day people wait for another onam season keeping the festivites as a memory. Hidden Mantra is a space that discusses different types of quotes, Indian culture, Buddhism , yoga etc. Achieve trustworthy and reliable sources from Hidden Mantra blogs regarding the topics. Follow Hidden Mantra to achieve more informative content. Namaste!
