what is the story behind onam

Onam is a 10-day harvest festival celebrated in the Indian state of Kerala. The most famous legend associated with Onam is the return of the benevolent Asura king Mahabali to visit his people every year. According to Hindu legends, Onam is celebrated in Kerala in remembrance of the good governance under the rule of daitya king Mahabali, a mythical king who once ruled Kerala. The legend holds that jealous of Mahabalis popularity and his power, the devas and gods conspired to end his reign. They sent Vamana to earth in the form of a dwarf Brahmin who trampled Mahabali to patala (netherworld) . However, impressed by Mahabali's gesture, Lord Vishnu allowed him to return to Earth once every year, and this homecoming is celebrated as Onam. The incident is said to have occurred on the star sign of Thiruvonam in the month of Chingam, and ever since, every year during the 10 days of Onam, the people of Kerala eagerly await their beloved king. The festival is celebrated by everyone irrespective of religion and caste, and it includes a spectrum of cultural events such as boat races, dance performances, and a multi-course meal served on banana leaves called Sadya.