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| Happy Onam greetings, cdn.cdnparenting.com |
This year the popular onam festival was celebrated between September 06 to September 15, 2024 with pomp and show across Kerala state.
What is unique about Kerala's most iconic festival, Onam is it stands apart from other Hindu celebrations with its distinct message of inclusivity and balance. While many Hindu festivals emphasize the triumph of good over evil, Onam defies this narrative by honoring both King Mahabali, a benevolent Asura (demon) king, and Lord Vamana, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who vanquished him. This balance between the vanquished (Mahabali) and the victor (Vamana) reflects a profound cultural ethos—embracing equality, human values, and coexistence.
The Legend of King Mahabali and Lord Vamana
According to Hindu mythology, Mahabali was a powerful and just ruler. Under his reign, his kingdom thrived with prosperity, fairness, and equality. However, Mahabali’s pride in his achievements led to his downfall. Lord Vishnu, in the form of Vamana, a dwarf mendicant, approached Mahabali and asked for three paces of land. Mahabali, known for his generosity, granted the request. Vamana then assumed a giant form, covering the earth and sky with his first two steps. With no land left to offer, Mahabali humbly offered his own head for the third step. Vamana, fulfilling the request, banished Mahabali to the netherworld.
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| Sri Kovil moolavar idol, Ulagalantha Perumal temple, Tirukoilur,TN |
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| Ulagalantha Perumal temple, Tirukoilur, TN i.ytimg.com |
Despite being sent to the netherworld, Mahabali's reign is remembered for its justice, peace, and abundance. In recognition of his virtues, Lord Vishnu granted him the boon to return to his kingdom once a year. This annual visit is celebrated through Onam, a festival that reflects the people's affection and longing for a just ruler.He is welcomed back to his kingdom with open arms, and the festival symbolizes unity, equality, and harmony among all people.
Onam transcends religious and social barriers in Kerala, being celebrated by Hindus, Christians, and others alike . It represents a spirit of inclusivity, with people from all walks of life coming together to celebrate their shared cultural heritage.
Ten Days of Festivity: From Atham to Thiruvonam
Onam is celebrated for ten days, starting with Atham and culminating on the tenth day, known as Thiruvonam, which is the most auspicious day of the festival. Each day is marked by unique rituals and customs. The highlight of the celebrations is the creation of intricate floral patterns called pookalams in front of homes, made to welcome King Mahabali. Each day, an additional layer of flowers is added, symbolizing the growing anticipation of the king's arrival.
As part of the tradition, clay idols of Mahabali and Vamana, known as Onathappan, are placed at the center of the pookalam. These idols are revered throughout the festival. On the day of Avittom, the idols are ceremoniously immersed in water, signifying Mahabali's respectful departure to the netherworld.
The Grand Feast: Onam Sadya
A major highlight of the Onam festival is the grand feast known as sadya, a sumptuous vegetarian meal served on banana leaves. Sadya consists of a variety of 26 traditional dishes, including rice, curries, pickles, chutneys, and desserts. Women in each household take great pride in preparing this elaborate meal, reflecting the importance of family, community, and gratitude.
Cultural Events: Boat Races, Dances, and Games
Onam is not just about rituals; it is a vibrant celebration of Kerala's rich cultural heritage. One of the most popular events during Onam is Vallam Kali, the traditional snake boat race. These boat races, especially those on the Pampa River, are a grand spectacle, drawing participants and spectators from across the region.
Other cultural events include Pulikali, where men paint themselves as tigers and perform lively dances, Thumbi Thullal (women’s group dance), Kummattikali (mask dances), and Onathallu (martial arts). These performances, full of energy and tradition, add to the festive atmosphere and showcase Kerala’s diverse cultural history.
A Festival Beyond Divisions
Onam is much more than a harvest festival bringing people together in a shared celebration of prosperity and goodwill. In Onam, the Asura (demon) king Mahabali is not despised but is embraced as a symbol of righteousness and generosity.
Through its blend of mythology, culture, and joyous celebration, Onam reminds us that true greatness lies in humility, sacrifice, and the ability to unite people beyond divisions. Kerala’s most cherished festival, Onam, no doubt, continues to uphold the values of unity, equality, and harmony that define Kerala’s cultural identity.
https://www.navrangindia.in/2022/09/onam-festival-of-kerala-2022-it-imparts.html
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