The Onam festival is one of the most important and popular festivals in Kerala, celebrated by people of all religions and communities. It is a celebration of the state’s rich culture, tradition, and heritage, marked by a 10-day long festival that culminates in the main day of Onam, also known as Thiruvonam.
Onam is celebrated in honor of the legendary King Mahabali, who is said to have ruled Kerala during a golden age of peace, prosperity and prosperity. During the festival, people decorate their homes with flowers and rangolis, prepare traditional Onam meals, and participate in a variety of cultural and traditional activities such as boat races, elephant processions, and music and dance performances.
One of the most famous and colorful aspects of Onam is the Onam Pookalam, a beautiful floral rangoli created with a variety of flowers. These pookalams are created with great care and precision, and are often made in the shape of a traditional design or a depiction of King Mahabali.
Another popular Onam tradition is the Onam sadya, a grand feast prepared and served on banana leaves. The Onam sadya includes a wide variety of traditional dishes such as sambar, avial, rasam, and payasam, and is considered an integral part of the Onam celebrations.
The Onam festival is also marked by a number of cultural and traditional activities such as the Onam Vallam Kali, a snake boat race, and the Onam Elephants Procession. These events are a celebration of the state’s rich cultural heritage and are enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds.
In addition to the traditional activities, there are also a number of modern Onam celebrations and events such as Onam music and dance performances, and Onam film festivals. These events provide an opportunity for visitors to experience the unique culture and traditions of Kerala.
Overall, Onam is a festival that is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy by the people of Kerala. With its rich cultural heritage, traditional activities, and delicious food, it is an experience that should not be missed by anyone visiting Kerala during the Onam festival season.