Onam, the vibrant festival of Kerala, holds a special place in the hearts of its people, celebrating the homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali. Legend has it that King Mahabali was a just and beloved ruler whose reign brought prosperity and happiness to his kingdom. However, his growing power concerned the gods, prompting Lord Vishnu to intervene in the guise of a dwarf Brahmin named Vamana.
Vamana approached Mahabali during his sacrificial ceremony and requested land measured by his three steps. Despite warnings from his advisor, Mahabali agreed to grant the boon. To his surprise, Vamana grew to cosmic proportions, covering the earth and heavens in two steps. Mahabali then realized that it was no ordinary boy before him but Lord Vishnu himself. Seeing that there was no more land left, the king bowed before the boy, offering his head for the next step. Satisfied by the king’s devotion, Lord Vishnu blessed Mahabali and sent him to Pathala, or the netherworld, with permission to visit his subjects once every year.
The Rituals and Traditions of Onam
Onam spans 10 days, beginning with Atham and culminating in Thiruvonam, the most auspicious day of the festival.
Atham: The festivities commence with early morning baths and prayers at local temples. Families prepare a traditional breakfast of steamed bananas and fried pappadams. A swing adorned with flowers is hung from high branches, where youngsters delight in swinging to the tunes of traditional Onam songs. The maidens of the house begin crafting intricate floral mats called Pookalam to welcome Mahabali’s spirit.
Chithira and Chodhi: These days are marked by prayers and preparations, with families continuing to add new designs and layers to their pookalam.
Vishakam: Onam markets come alive as people start shopping for new clothes and essentials for the upcoming festivities.
Anizham: The highlight of this day is the thrilling Vallam Kali, or Snake Boat Race, held at Aranmulla on the banks of the river Pamba. Domestic and international tourists flock to witness this spectacular event.
Thriketa and Moolam: These days emphasize family reunions and festive cheer, with preparations intensifying across the state. Communities engage in cultural activities and performances.
Pooradam: Devotees create clay idols known as Onathappan, symbolizing Mahabali, and homes undergo extensive cleaning to welcome the spirit of the king.
Uthradam: Last-minute shopping and final arrangements are made for Thiruvonam, ensuring everything is set for the grand celebrations.
Thiruvonam: At the pinnacle of Onam, families gather for the sumptuous Onasadya feast served on plantain leaves. Cultural performances such as Pulikali (tiger dance) and Thiruvathira Kali (women’s dance) fill the air with joyous festivities.
Post-Thiruvonam Celebrations
While Thiruvonam marks the peak of celebrations, the festivities continue with Avittam and Chathayam.
Avittam: This day marks the departure of King Mahabali, with the Onathappan idols immersed in water, symbolizing his return to the netherworld.
Chathayam: On the 12th day, activities like snake boat races and traditional dances continue, extending the festive spirit.
Dances and Games of Onam
Pulikali: Tiger Dance, performed in Thrissur, where participants painted as tigers dance to lively beats, creating a colorful spectacle.
Thiruvathira Kali: A graceful dance performed by women in traditional Kerala attire, circling around a lamp, synchronized to rhythmic music, adorned with jasmine flowers.
Thumbi Thullal: Women sing and clap in unison, reaching rhythmic crescendos as the central performer enters a trance-like dance.
Kummattikali: A mask dance from northern Kerala, featuring dancers in colorful masks visiting homes, spreading joy and laughter.
Uriyadi : A traditional game played during Onam involving stacking earthen pots using a simple rope knot, highlighting community spirit and playful camaraderie.
There are many more Onam dances and games, but these are just a few of them. If this is your first onam, you just can’t miss these. That being said, Kummatikali and Thumbi Thulla are rare sights in Kerala these days.
Onam is not just a festival; it is a celebration of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage, unity, and prosperity. Through rituals like Pookalam, Onasadya, and Vallam Kali, the people of Kerala uphold their traditions and honor the legacy of King Mahabali, making Onam a truly unforgettable experience.