Onam 2023: History, celebrations and More.
Onam festivities commenced on August 20 and will conclude on August 31. Explore the history, importance, and revelry of Kerala’s harvest festival. The auspicious occasion of Onam commenced on August 20 and will culminate on August 31 this year. The ten-day-long celebrations, known as Thiru-Onam or Thiruvonam, honor the return of King Mahabali/Maveli, and are celebrated with great enthusiasm throughout the state. Each day of Onam – Atham, Chithira, Chodi, Vishakam, Anizham, Thriketta, Moolam, Pooradam, Uthradom, and Thiruvonam – carries unique significance. For a detailed understanding of each day, refer here. Particularly, Thiruvonam, the final day, holds paramount importance as it signifies the conclusion of Onam festivities. Families gather to partake in Onasadya, the grand Onam feast. If you and your family are observing Onam this year, it’s essential to acquaint yourselves with its history, significance, and traditions.
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Onam 2023 History and Significance
The Onam festival is a significant and cherished harvest festival celebrated in the southern Indian state of Kerala. It holds historical and cultural importance, steeped in legends and folklore. The festival commemorates the return of King Mahabali, a mythical ruler known for his benevolence and righteousness, to visit his kingdom once a year.
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The history of Onam is intricately tied to the legend of King Mahabali and his rule. According to Hindu mythology, King Mahabali was an extremely just and virtuous ruler who gained immense popularity and brought prosperity to his kingdom. However, his growing power began to concern the gods, particularly Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu took on the avatar of Vamana, a dwarf Brahmin, and approached King Mahabali for a favor.
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Vamana requested three paces of land measured by his own steps. The king, known for his generosity, agreed. However, Vamana’s first step covered the entire earth, his second step covered the heavens, and with nowhere else to place his third step, King Mahabali offered his head. This act of devotion touched Lord Vishnu, who granted Mahabali the boon to visit his kingdom and people once every year.
Onam is celebrated over a span of ten days, with the most grandeur observed on the Thiruvonam day, which is believed to be the day when King Mahabali returns to Kerala. People engage in various festive activities, including creating intricate flower rangoli designs (known as Pookkalam), indulging in traditional Kerala cuisine, wearing new clothes, participating in cultural performances like Kathakali and Vallam Kali (boat races), and more.
The history of Onam not only celebrates the memory of King Mahabali and his virtuous rule but also reflects the spirit of unity, prosperity, and cultural heritage among the people of Kerala. It is a time of joy, harmony, and togetherness, where Keralites come together to honor their roots and partake in the vibrant festivities.
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