Onam festival is a Hindu festival that is celebrated in the Indian state of Kerala. It is one of the most important festivals in the region and is observed by millions of people each year.
The festival is believed to have originated in ancient times, and it has been celebrated for thousands of years. It is typically observed in the month of Chingam, which falls in August or September in the Gregorian calendar.
There are many legends and stories associated with the Onam festival, and the exact origins of the festival are unclear. One popular legend tells the story of King Mahabali, who was a just and virtuous ruler who ruled over Kerala in ancient times.
King Mahabali was loved by his people, and his kingdom flourished under his rule. However, the gods became jealous of his popularity and feared that he would become too powerful. In order to bring King Mahabali down a peg, the god Vishnu took on the form of a humble Brahmin and approached the king. He asked the king if he could have as much land as he could cover in three steps, and the king, not realizing that he was dealing with a god, agreed.
Vishnu then revealed his true form and took three enormous steps that covered the entire earth, the heavens, and the underworld. Impressed by the king’s generosity, Vishnu granted him a boon and allowed him to return to earth once a year to visit his people. This is how Onam came to be celebrated. Every year, on the day of King Mahabali’s return, his people would welcome him with great fanfare and celebration.
During the festival, people would decorate their homes and streets, and prepare a special feast called the Onam Sadhya. This feast consisted of a variety of traditional dishes, including rice, curry, and sweet dishes.
In addition to the feast, the festival also included a number of other activities and traditions, such as boat races, dance performances, and games. People would dress in their finest clothes and celebrate with their friends and family.
Today, Onam festival is still celebrated in much the same way as it was in ancient times. It is an important cultural and religious event in Kerala and is attended by millions of people each year.
Despite the many changes that have occurred over the centuries, the festival continues to be a vibrant and joyous celebration of culture, tradition, and community. It is a reminder of the enduring power of love and friendship, and the importance of keeping alive the traditions of the past.