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It’s that time of the year again when the mythical King Mahabali comes calling. When vibrant floral carpets adorn the front yards of homes, when every household in Kerala wears an ethereal look, all soaked in festive grandeur. It is the time when the whole State gets draped in a state of utmost cheerfulness and merriment. Yes, Onam is upon us!
Onam is not just a festival; it is more of an emotion for every Keralite. The celebrations for Onam are held for ten days, beginning with the atham asterism in the month of Chingam (August / September) as per the local calendar.
One will never be short of activities if the visit to Kerala is timed around Onam. Every nook and cranny will have something unique to offer a traveller. In fact being hard pressed for time is not uncommon as the days will be jam-packed with the best of Kerala. The best of Kerala culture, traditions, cuisine and art forms can be experienced during the Onam season.
Every year, a host of programmes are organised by the State government across the length and breadth of the State. One gets to witness the true charm of Kerala art forms, tribal art forms, Onam programmmes as well as the traditional entertainment fare during the festival. Every year many venues are set up in the State for the week long festivities where the travellers as well as the local population get to revel in the spirit of Onam and enjoy the grand fete.
Some of the Kerala experiences include a chance to witness the traditional percussion music such as panchavadyam, watch performances of classical and folk art forms by renowned artistes, experience the charm of Kalaripayattu (an ancient martial art form of Kerala), revel in the jamboree of Pulikali, and savour the Onam feast-a sumptuous meal of more than 25 dishes! A colourful pageantry marks the end of the week long festivities. Onam packages tailor made for tourists are also available.
The festival has its roots in mythology as well as old agrarian practices. Legend has it that King Mahabali, the magnanimous and righteous king of Asura (demon) clan, who ruled Kerala was sent to the nether world by Vamana, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, in a devious plot hatched by the envious devas (Gods of the heaven). He was allowed to visit his subjects once a year and this occasion is celebrated as Onam. The other reason for celebrating Onam is because it is that time of the year when a good harvest has been gathered all over Kerala, resulting in plentitude and happiness.
For the travellers who wish to explore the culture and tradition of the State, there is no better time than the Onam season. Just soak in the grandeur of the festivities and experience Kerala in its true essence.
