10 Must-Know Facts About Onam: Kerala's Biggest Cultural Festival
Onam, Kerala's grandest and most anticipated cultural festival, is a vibrant celebration that transcends religious and cultural boundaries. Every year, Malayalis around the world eagerly await this 10-day festival, which is packed with traditions, rituals, and festivities. If you're curious to learn more about this colorful festival, here are 10 must-know facts about Onam that showcase its significance in Kerala’s rich cultural heritage.
1. The Legend of King Mahabali
The heart of Onam revolves around the legendary King Mahabali, a benevolent ruler who was loved by his people. According to mythology, Mahabali was sent to the underworld by Lord Vishnu, but he was granted permission to visit his people once a year. Onam marks the annual homecoming of Mahabali, and the festivities celebrate his reign of prosperity, equality, and joy.
2. Celebrated by All, Beyond Religion
Though rooted in Hindu mythology, Onam is a secular festival celebrated by people of all religions in Kerala. The sense of unity and communal harmony during Onam is one of the most beautiful aspects of the festival. It brings together communities, families, and friends, making it a celebration of Kerala’s inclusive spirit.
3. The 10-Day Long Festival
Onam lasts for ten days, starting with Atham and culminating with Thiruvonam, the most important day. Each day holds special significance, with various rituals, feasts, and cultural events taking place. The first and last days are considered the most auspicious, with Thiruvonam being the grand finale of the festival.
4. Pookalam – The Floral Carpet
One of the most recognizable aspects of Onam is the creation of Pookalams, intricate floral designs laid out in front of homes and public spaces. These flower carpets start small on the first day of Onam and grow in size as the festival progresses. The vibrant designs symbolize prosperity and welcome King Mahabali to every household.
5. Onam Sadhya – The Grand Feast
No Onam celebration is complete without the traditional Onam Sadhya, a lavish vegetarian meal served on banana leaves. The Sadhya consists of around 26 dishes, including rice, sambar, avial, thoran, pickles, and the much-loved dessert, payasam. This feast represents the abundance and prosperity of the harvest season, which Onam celebrates.
6. The Famous Snake Boat Races
One of the most thrilling and visually stunning events during Onam is the Vallamkali or Snake Boat Races. Held in the backwaters of Kerala, particularly in places like Alappuzha, these long, narrow boats, resembling snakes, are rowed by teams of up to 100 oarsmen. The races are a fierce competition and draw crowds from all over the world.
7. Kaikottikali – The Traditional Onam Dance
Kaikottikali is a traditional group dance performed by women during Onam. The dance is graceful and synchronized, with participants forming a circle and moving in rhythm to folk songs. Kaikottikali is often performed in homes and public spaces, adding to the festive atmosphere.
8. Pulikali – The Tiger Dance
A unique and entertaining aspect of Onam is the Pulikali or Tiger Dance, where men paint their bodies to resemble tigers and perform a dance in the streets. This folk art form symbolizes bravery and strength and is a crowd favorite during Onam festivities, particularly in Thrissur.
9. Harvest Festival of Kerala
Onam is also a celebration of Kerala’s bountiful harvest. The festival marks the end of the monsoon season and the beginning of the harvest season. It is a time of gratitude for nature's abundance, and the festival rituals reflect the agrarian roots of Kerala's culture.
10. Onam Around the World
While Onam is primarily celebrated in Kerala, the festival has a global reach due to the large Malayali diaspora. From the United States to the Middle East, Malayalis around the world celebrate Onam with great enthusiasm, organizing community events, Sadhyas, and cultural programs to keep the spirit of Onam alive, no matter where they are.
Conclusion
Onam is more than just a festival; it's a celebration of Kerala’s cultural identity, unity, and the eternal message of equality and prosperity. Whether you're experiencing the colorful Pookalams, savoring the delicious Sadhya, or watching the exhilarating Snake Boat Races, Onam offers something for everyone. Now that you know these 10 key facts, you’ll have a deeper appreciation for Kerala’s biggest cultural festival and the traditions that make it so special.
Happy Onam!
