What is Onam ?
Onam is a traditional and major harvest festival celebrated in the Indian state of Kerala. It's a ten-day festival that usually falls in the month of August or September, marking the annual homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali. Onam is known for its elaborate feasts, cultural performances, and vibrant floral decorations called "Pookkalam." It's a time for people to come together, celebrate their heritage, and enjoy various festivities that showcase Kerala's rich culture and traditions.
History of Onam:
Onam's history is rooted in the legend of King Mahabali, a mythical ruler who was known for his just and benevolent rule. According to Hindu mythology, Mahabali was a generous and virtuous king who became so powerful that he posed a threat to the gods. In order to curb his influence, Lord Vishnu took the form of a dwarf Brahmin named Vamana and approached Mahabali. He requested three paces of land and then grew in size, covering the entire earth in two steps and the heavens in the third. As a result, Mahabali was pushed into the netherworld, but due to his virtuousness, he was granted permission to visit his kingdom and people once a year during Onam.
Onam is considered a homecoming for King Mahabali, and it's celebrated with immense enthusiasm in Kerala. The festival showcases the state's cultural heritage through various activities such as intricate floral arrangements, traditional dance performances like Kathakali and Thiruvathira, boat races like Vallamkali, and sumptuous feasts called "Onasadya." The festival is a reflection of the unity, harmony, and rich traditions of the people of Kerala.
Different Ways in Which Onam Celebrated
1. Pookkalam (Floral Rangoli): Throughout the ten-day festival, people create intricate and colorful floral designs known as Pookkalam at the entrances of their homes. Each day, the design becomes larger and more elaborate.
2. Onasadya (Grand Feast): A highlight of Onam is the Onasadya, a grand vegetarian feast served on banana leaves. It typically includes a variety of traditional dishes and is a symbol of Kerala's culinary excellence.
3. Vallamkali (Boat Races): Spectacular boat races, known as Vallamkali, are organized during Onam. Colorfully decorated traditional boats, accompanied by synchronized rowing and cheering crowds, make these races a captivating spectacle.
4. Pulikali (Tiger Dance): In this traditional folk art, performers paint themselves as tigers and hunters. They dance through the streets, showcasing their vibrant costumes and energetic moves.
5. Traditional Dance and Music: Performances like Kathakali (classical dance-drama) and Thiruvathira (women's group dance) are an integral part of Onam celebrations. These art forms reflect Kerala's rich cultural heritage.
6. Puli Kali (Leopard Play): Similar to Pulikali, Puli Kali features performers painted as leopards. They dance and entertain with their playful movements and vivid costumes.
7. Athachamayam Parade: The festival begins with the Athachamayam procession, featuring caparisoned elephants, traditional music, and cultural displays. It showcases the vibrant cultural diversity of Kerala.
8. Onakkalikal (Games): Various traditional games and sports are organized during Onam. These include tug-of-war, coconut tree climbing, and other local competitions that bring communities together.
9. Cultural Programs: Throughout the festival, cultural programs, music performances, and folk dances are organized to entertain and engage people of all ages.
10. New Clothes and Decorations: People dress in new traditional attire and adorn their homes with intricate decorations to welcome King Mahabali.
11. Onam Markets: Special Onam markets are set up where people can buy traditional items, clothes, accessories, and handicrafts.
These diverse celebrations during Onam reflect the unity, harmony, and cultural richness of Kerala's society, making it one of the most cherished festivals in the region.
Onam 2023 ( Dates & Events of Festival )
The Onam festival in 2023 will be celebrated from August 20 to 29. Main Event of this festival on 29 of August.
Here are the 10 days of the Onam festival:
• Atham (August 20)
• Chithira (August 21)
• Chodi (August 22)
• Vishakam (August 23)
• Anizham (August 24)
• Thriketta (August 25)
• Moolam (August 26)
• Pooradam (August 27)
• Uthradom (August 28)
• Thiruvonam (August 29)
• Avittom (August 30)
The festival is celebrated to commemorate the homecoming of King Mahabali, a benevolent ruler who was banished to the netherworld by the god Vishnu. Onam is a time for feasting, dancing, and merrymaking. The most popular event of the festival is the boat race, which is held in various parts of Kerala. Other traditional Onam activities include pookalam (flower rangolis), kalaripayattu (martial arts), and kathakali (classical dance).
Here are some of the other events that are held during the Onam festival:
• Onam Sadya: A traditional feast that is served on a banana leaf. The feast includes a variety of dishes, such as rice, fish, vegetables, and sweets.
• Vallamkali: A boat race that is held in various parts of Kerala. The boats are decorated with flowers and leaves, and the race is a colorful and exciting event.
• Pulikali: A traditional dance in which the dancers wear tiger costumes. The dance is performed to celebrate the victory of King Mahabali over the demon king Banasura.
• Kathakali: A classical dance form that tells stories from Hindu mythology. The dancers wear elaborate costumes and masks, and the dance is accompanied by music and singing.
Onam is a time for people of all faiths to come together and celebrate the harvest and the prosperity of Kerala. It is a time for family and friends to gather and enjoy each other's company.
Recent News from Onam 2023
- The Kerala government has announced a public holiday on August 29, the day of Thiruvonam, the main day of the festival.
- The state tourism department has organized a series of events across Kerala to celebrate Onam. These include boat races, cultural programs, and food festivals.
- Several celebrities, including actors, musicians, and sportspersons, have extended their greetings to the people of Kerala on the occasion of Onam.
- The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has released a special Onam greeting card, featuring images of the state's landmarks and festivals.
- The Onam festival is also being celebrated by Malayali communities around the world. There are Onam events planned in cities such as Dubai, London, and New York.
Conclusion :
Onam is a vibrant and cherished festival that holds a significant place in the hearts of people from Kerala, India. Its rich cultural and historical significance, along with its colorful celebrations and traditional rituals, make it a truly remarkable event. From the iconic floral rangoli called "Pookkalam" to the elaborate feast "Onam Sadya," the festival encapsulates the spirit of unity, diversity, and gratitude. As families come together, old and young, to partake in the festivities, Onam exemplifies the essence of togetherness and harmony. It's a time to celebrate the bounties of nature, pay homage to King Mahabali, and create lasting memories that resonate for generations. Through its rituals, feasts, and cultural performances, Onam not only connects people to their roots but also serves as a reminder of the values that bind us as a community.
