Onam is an ancient Hindu festival celebrated predominantly by the people of Kerala, a state in southern India. It is a 10-day harvest festival that occurs at the beginning of the month of Chingam, which usually falls between August and September. The festival has both religious and cultural significance and is considered the official festival of the state.
The main themes of Onam are the celebration of the rice harvest and the return of the legendary King Mahabali (also known as Maveli) to the state. According to mythology, King Mahabali was a kind-hearted and wise ruler who defeated the gods and began ruling over all three worlds. However, the gods became insecure about his popularity and asked Lord Vishnu to intervene. Lord Vishnu took his fifth avatar, the Brahmin dwarf Vamana, and tricked King Mahabali into giving up his kingdom. However, Lord Vishnu was impressed by King Mahabalis generosity and granted him the boon to visit his kingdom once a year. This annual visit is celebrated as Onam.
The festival is celebrated with various cultural events, including music, dance, carnival floats, and decorated elephants. People of all communities participate in the festivities, and Onam is known for its joy, excitement, and enjoyment among all sections of the population.
