It’s that time of the year when Malayalis all around the world get together to celebrate the harvest festival of Onam. For those unaware, Onam this year will be celebrated from the 2nd to the 13th of September, as per the current reports. Every Keralite, whether down south or in any other part of the world, strives to uphold tradition in the most authentic way. From gathering flowers for the pookalam (similar to rangoli) to cooking authentic Kerala dishes, Onam brings families together. However, if you’re from Kerala, you know Onam isn’t just another harvest festival. And in case you’re not, let us tell you how and why this festival is celebrated.
The legend of King Mahabali
The festival of Onam actually celebrates the visit of King Mahabali to the state of Kerala every year. A lot of you may already know the legend of how Lord Vishnu’s Vamana avatar asks for three steps of land from King Mahabali. But just as the king agrees, the Vamana begins to expand in size of cosmic proportions! And for this third step, he has to keep his foot on the king’s own head, which pushes him to Patala, the nether world.
There the King requests the Brahmin to reveal his true identity. And that’s when Lord Vishnu appears before the King. But Mahabali was really attached to his kingdom and the people requested that he be allowed to visit Kerala once in a year. Lord Vishnu was moved by the Kings nobility and was pleased to grant the wish. Which is how the festival of Onam came into being.
The Celebrations
Onam is the annual harvest festival in the state of Kerala. It is a major annual event for Malayali people in and outside Kerala as it celebrates the annual rice harvest. The interesting rituals associated with the festival contribute to making the celebrations of Onam a fascinating one.
Pookalam
Pookalam refers to making designs with different types of flowers in front of the gate of the house. Kind of like a rangoli, you can say. With each passing day during the Onam festival, a new layer of flowers is added to the Pookalam. In fact, Pookalam competitions are also held in some places!
Onasadya
This the grand meal prepared at the day of Thiru Onam. Onasadya meal is served on a Banana leaf and is a nine-course meal having at least four to five vegetables.
Onakalikal
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Image Source: Geminternationalschool
This refers to all the games played at the festival of Onam. Talappanthukali, which is a game played with a ball is a favourite among the men. They also indulge in Ambeyyal (archery). Women, on the other hand, engage themselves in making Pookalam and performing several traditional dances.
Vallamkali Boat Race
Also known as the snake boat race, this is one of the most entertaining events of the Onam festival. Nearly 100 boatmen compete with each other in a boat riding competition. The boats are decorated beautifully in different patterns.
Elephant Procession
The elephant procession is one of the most awaited events of Onam. The majestic animal is decorated with flowers, ornaments in gold and other metals. The elephant is made to take a round of the whole of Thrissur where this procession is held.
Folk dances
Other major attraction of the festival includes the folk dances performed by women. Kaikottikali is a clap dance performed on the occasion of Onam. Women performing the dance sing praises of King Mahabali. Women also perform a dance in a circle. This dance form is called Thumbi Thullal.
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