Onam is Kerala’s grandest festival, a vibrant ten-day celebration that marks the homecoming of the legendary King Mahabali. It is more than just a harvest festival, it is a time when the state transitions into white and gold hues, music and embraces tradition. Onam reflects the cultural identity of Kerala blending mythology, art and community spirit. Every home comes alive with floral decorations, traditional feasts and joyous performances that make Onam a symbol of unity and happiness.
The Legend of King Mahabali
The story of Onam is rooted in the legend of King Mahabali, a just and benevolent ruler who was loved by his people. According to mythology, his reign was marked by prosperity, equality and peace. The gods however became jealous and sent Lord Vishnu in his Vamana avatar to end Mahabali’s rule. The king offered everything he had including his own head to Vamana. Impressed by his devotion, Vishnu granted him permission to visit his people once a year. Onam celebrates this annual visit of Mahabali to Kerala.
Significance of Onam
Onam holds great cultural and social significance. It marks the end of the monsoon season and the beginning of the harvest. Farmers celebrate their prosperity and offer thanks to nature. The festival also promotes harmony and equality as people from all religions and communities participate in the celebrations. Onam is recognized as the official state festival of Kerala and symbolizes the spirit of unity and joy.
Duration and Timing of the Festival
Onam is celebrated over ten days, usually falling in the Malayalam month of Chingam which corresponds to August or September. Each day has its own importance and customs. The festival begins with Atham and concludes with Thiruvonam, the most important day of celebration. During these days homes are cleaned, decorated and filled with festive preparations.
Pookalam: The Floral Carpet
One of the most beautiful aspects of Onam is the creation of Pookalam or floral carpet. It is made at the entrance of homes using fresh flowers of various colours arranged in intricate patterns. Each day new layers of flowers are added making the Pookalam larger and more elaborate. It is believed to welcome King Mahabali into homes. The designs often depict traditional motifs and symbolize prosperity and happiness.
Onasadya The Grand Feast
The highlight of Onam is the Onasadya, a lavish vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf. It consists of up to 26 dishes, including rice, sambar, avial, olan, thoran, pachadi, and payasam. Each dish has a unique taste and texture reflecting Kerala’s culinary richness. The feast represents abundance and is shared by family and friends in a spirit of togetherness.
Vallam Kali: The Snake Boat Race
The snake boat race or Vallam Kali is one of the most spectacular events of Onam. Long snake-shaped boats manned by dozens of rowers race through the backwaters of Kerala. The rhythmic rowing and traditional songs, known as Vanchipattu, create a thrilling atmosphere. The race symbolises teamwork, coordination and the festive spirit of the people. The Nehru Trophy Boat Race in Alappuzha is one of the most famous events associated with Onam.
Pulikali: The Tiger Dance
Pulikali, meaning “play of the tigers,” is a folk art form performed during Onam. Men paint themselves in bright yellow, orange and black stripes to resemble tigers and dance to the beats of drums. The performance is both energetic and entertaining, drawing large crowds. Pulikali symbolises bravery, joy and the wild spirit of the festival.
Thiruvathira: Dance Tradition
Thiruvathira is a graceful traditional dance performed by women during Onam. Dressed in elegant white and gold sarees, namely the Kasavu, they form circles and move rhythmically to the tunes of Thiruvathira songs. The dance celebrates womanhood, love and devotion. It is also said to commemorate the reunion of Goddess Parvati with Lord Shiva.
Kaikottikali and Folk Performances
Apart from Thiruvathira, many other folk dances and performances are held during Onam. Kaikottikali, directly translated as ‘clap dance’, is popularly played among women. Artists perform Kathakali, Kummatti Kali and Theyyam during Onam celebrations within the community. These performances bring Kerala’s rich cultural heritage to life and add grandeur to the festivities.
Onam in Temples and Rituals
Temples across Kerala play a major role during Onam. Special poojas prayers and offerings are held to invoke blessings. In Thrikkakara Temple near Kochi which is believed to be the home of King Mahabali the celebrations are especially grand. Rituals here emphasize humility, devotion and community welfare.
Role of Music and Instruments
Music plays an essential role in Onam celebrations. Traditional instruments like chenda maddalam and elathalam accompany dances and processions. Songs like Onappattu and Vanchipattu narrate stories of King Mahabali and praise the beauty of Kerala. The rhythmic beats create an atmosphere of excitement and unity among participants.
Onam and Nature
Onam is deeply tied to nature and agriculture. It marks the season of plenty when crops are harvested and granaries are full. The festival promotes eco-friendly practices such as using flowers for decoration and banana leaves for serving food. It reflects the harmonious coexistence of people with nature.
Costumes and Attire
During Onam people wear traditional attire. Men wear mundu and women wear the elegant Kasavu saree which is white with golden borders. The attire symbolizes purity and simplicity. Many people also decorate themselves with jasmine flowers and gold jewellery adding to the festive charm.
Onam Celebrations Across Kerala
Every district in Kerala celebrates Onam in its unique way. In Thrissur the Pulikali and cultural parades attract thousands of spectators. In Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram processions featuring floats and traditional performances are common. Rural areas celebrate with community feasts, sports and art competitions. The diversity in celebration reflects the unity of Kerala’s culture.
Modern Celebrations and Global Reach
While traditional rituals remain central, Onam has adapted to modern times. Urban communities celebrate with stage shows, competitions and digital events. Malayali communities across the world organize Onam gatherings to stay connected to their roots. The global celebration of Onam reflects Kerala’s cultural reach beyond its borders.
Conclusion
Onam stands as a shining example of Kerala’s cultural richness and communal harmony. From the colourful Pookalam to the thrilling boat races each element of the festival celebrates life and togetherness. It brings art craft music and tradition into a single joyous occasion. Onam is not just Kerala’s festival, it is India’s celebration of love, gratitude and unity expressed through timeless traditions.
