Welcome to the Onam Festival in Kerala! This annual harvest celebration bursts with colorful events, exciting activities, and delicious feasts. More than just a festival, it’s a joyful time of unity where communities come together. Discover why Onam is a must-see experience for every traveler!

What is the Onam Festival?

Onam is the official harvest festival of the South Indian state of Kerala. It honors the legendary King Mahabali and marks the start of the Malayalam New Year. This festival reflects Kerala's cultural pride, blending history, religion, and tradition in a vibrant celebration. Malayalis celebrate it for over ten days, making it a wonderful experience for everyone!

For those outside Kerala, Onam is a reminder of their cultural heritage. Celebrations include traditional elements like feasts, Pookalam (floral designs), and performances. In Kerala, Onam is celebrated widely in homes, temples, and public spaces.

 

The Story of King Mahabali and the Mythology Behind Onam

The incredible story of King Mahabali will capture your heart!

A revered figure in Hindu mythology, Mahabali was Prahlada’s grandson and Hiranyakashipu’s son. He was a kind and generous Asura king, beloved by the people of Kerala, and his reign is often called a golden age due to the prosperity and fairness he brought.

To strengthen his rule, Mahabali performed the Ashwamedha Yagnas, strong rituals that boosted a king’s power. Completing 100 yagnas would allow him to challenge Lord Indra, the king of the gods. After finishing 99, Mahabali was ready for his last yagna, which would make him equal to or even greater than Indra.

The gods, jealous of his fame, sent Lord Vishnu, disguised as Vamana, to stop him. In a noble act, Mahabali offered his head to Vishnu instead of taking more land from his people. Impressed by his humility, Vishnu allowed him to visit Kerala once a year. This visit is celebrated as the joyful Onam festival!

 

What is the Significance of Onam Sadya?

The festival ends with the grand feast of Onam Sadya! This traditional vegetarian meal is served on banana leaves, showcasing Kerala's rich farming heritage in a unique way.

The Sadya shows gratitude for a good harvest and brings families and communities together in joy. The first day of Onam is special, filled with activities like cleaning homes, making beautiful Pookalams, and preparing the tasty Onasadya. The feast is a true treat, featuring over twenty dishes served on banana leaves!

When is the Onam Festival in 2024?

In 2024, the Onam celebrations will take place from August 20 to August 29, with the main event, Thiruvonam, on August 28. The festival starts with the fun Atham and Pookalam contests and ends with the grand finale of Thiruvonam.

The Onam festival is linked to the agricultural cycle, marking the best time of year: the harvest season! Each day of the festival is special and holds meaning throughout the ten days. The lead-up to Thiruvonam features rituals, performances, and cultural events that make it truly unique. Finally, the moment we’ve all been waiting for arrives as families come together for the Sadya and rituals!

How is the Onam Festival Celebrated in Kerala?

The people of Kerala, India, celebrate the amazing festival of Onam with great joy! It marks the homecoming of the legendary King Mahabali and the harvest season. The festival lasts ten days and is filled with traditional activities such as elaborate feasts (Onam Sadhya), floral designs (Pookalam), dance and music performances, and boat races.

 

Other Traditional Onam Celebrations

During the wonderful Onam festival, beautiful flower arrangements called Pookalam are placed at the entrances of homes to welcome King Mahabali. People dress in traditional clothes, like sarees and mundu, to celebrate Kerala's rich culture. The white and gold Kasavu sarees are a festive favorite. Everyone looks forward to wearing their best outfits and embracing the festival spirit. Onam is about more than just food and fun; dressing up in traditional clothing and jewelry is key to the celebration. It’s great to see both men and women equally participating.

For women, the Kasavu mundu or saree is the perfect choice, with its elegant cream color and golden border. Men love the mundu, a white cloth with a golden border, usually worn with a simple shirt or kurta. These outfits are comfortable and reflect Kerala’s cultural roots.

Onam also features the famous snake boat race, vallamkali, drawing many visitors. It’s a time of joy and unity for all! Traditional games, known as Onakalikal, are also enjoyed by families.

 

Onam Festival in Malayalam

The joyful Onam takes place in the Malayalam month of Chingam, aligning with August–September in the Gregorian calendar. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm, primarily in Malayalam, Kerala's native language, with local customs at the heart of the festivities.

The friendly Malayali people speak Malayalam not only in Kerala but also in Lakshadweep and Puducherry. During Onam, the best phrase to use is “Onashamsakal,” which means “Happy Onam”!

 

Stay Connected During Onam Festival with Yoho Mobile

Make the most of your Onam Festival experience with a Yoho Mobile eSIM. Enjoy easy, hassle-free connectivity without roaming fees. Share every amazing moment as you enjoy this exciting tradition!

🎁 Special Discount for Our Readers! As a special treat for our readers, Yoho Mobile is offering an exclusive discount! Use our coupon code "YOHOREADERSAVE" to get your first order for FREE! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to stay connected affordably in India.