Onam

Significance and History

Onam is a harvest festival celebrated in Kerala. Home decorations, preparation of traditional dishes, and classical dance are some of the common practices followed on this day. Also known as Thiruvonam, it is Kerala’s official state festival which is celebrated irrespective of caste, community, or religion across the state.

The festival is also celebrated by non-Hindu communities of the state of Kerala. The celebrations of Onam include boat races, martial arts, music, plantain offerings, masked dances, folk songs, group dances, and other performances.

Why do People Celebrate Onam? :

• Onam is a significant festival celebrated predominantly in the Indian state of Kerala. It marks the harvest season and is rooted in Hindu mythology, commemorating the return of the legendary King Mahabali, under whose reign Kerala was believed to have witnessed a golden era of prosperity and happiness.
• As per the legend, Mahabali was the grandson of the Brahmin sage Praladha. He was so powerful that he who took over the three worlds by defeating the Gods (Devas). In Vaishnavism, when the Devas sought Lord Vishnu’s help against Mahabali, Vishnu declined due to Mahabali’s virtue and devotion. After Mahabali’s victory, he performed a Yajna (sacrificial ritual) where he was obliged to grant any request. Lord Vishnu, in the form of a dwarf avatar named Vamana, approached the king and requested only three paces of land.
• Despite being surprised by the humble request, Mahabali agreed. Vamana then grew immensely, covering the earth and sky with two strides. With no space left for the third step, Mahabali offered his own head. Vamana, impressed by his devotion, sent him to Pathala (the underworld) but granted him the boon to visit his kingdom once every year. This annual visit is celebrated as the festival of Onam, symbolizing Mahabali’s return.

• Celebration at Krushna Dham Delaware
  At Krushna Dham Delaware,
• • Pookkalam: Pookkalam is the heart of Onam celebrations. Women create intricate and colorful floral carpets, known as ‘Pookkalam,’ on the ground at the entrance of their homes. These beautiful designs, crafted using a variety of fresh flowers, are made to welcome King Mahabali. These designs, accompanied by lit lamps, are a prominent symbol of the festival. Communities often hold competitions to see who can create the most elaborate and creative Pookkalam, making it the highlight of the festival.
  • Onakkodi: People exchange and wear new clothes known as ‘Onakkodi’ as a gesture of celebration and joy during Onam.
  • Onam Sadya: A grand feast called ‘onam sadya’ is prepared, consisting of around 13 dishes. The food is served on banana leaves and typically includes rice, various dishes, pickles, papads, and the essential sweet dish called ‘payasam,’ made of rice, milk, sugar, and coconut.
  • Vallamkali: The boat race, especially the one featuring Snake boats, known as ‘vallamkali,’ is a major highlight of Onam. These intricately designed boats, rowed by hundreds of oarsmen, compete in a thrilling race, and substantial cash rewards are given as prizes to the winners.
  • Processions: Elephants adorned with ornaments are a distinctive feature of Onam processions, adding grandeur to the festivities.
  • Thrikkakara Appan or Vaman Vishnu Idols: Idols of Thrikkakara appan (Onathappan) or Vaman Vishnu are installed in homes for worship during Onam.
  • Cultural Activities: Various cultural activities, including traditional Kathakali dance, music, art, and cuisine, are organized to celebrate Onam.
  • Pulikali Dance: Special dancers painted in yellow and black resembling tigers perform the energetic Pulikali dance, adding vibrancy and excitement to the festival.

Join us at Krushna Dham Delaware this Onam to seek blessings for an abundant and prosperous year ahead, through divine grace and community spirit.