Onam Festival in Kerala
Onam is a harvest festival which is rated the most significant and the biggest occasion for the southern Indian state of Kerala. Over the years, it has transformed into the signature event as the people enjoy this festival with great fanfare and enthusiasm. It’s celebrated annually in the first month of the Malayalam calendar or in the months of August-September, as per the Gregorian calendar.
Onam festival in Kerala is a ten day festival where in people from all walks of life unite together to celebrate, enjoy and take part in many cultural performances. During this “National Festival of Kerala”, the state brims over with a range of colourful activities, including customary dances & songs, traditional boat races, charming flower designs and loads of games etc.
As per the legends, Onam marks the arrival of Mahabali (the greatest king of Kerala) who visits his people during this specific day to bless them. During the festival, good-looking designs are made in front of the houses using petals of flowers to charm the king. People wear new and attractive clothes, offer gifts to relatives and together enjoy delicacies and cultural programs on offer.
This festival attracts people from different parts of country for its vivid exhibition of the traditional style of celebration. A huge crowd gathers to witness the popular boat race on this day; the locals prepare a range of sumptuous meals, including 9 courses, to please the king. Martial arts and many contests are organized all through the state during Onam in Kerala. A dazzling exhibition of fireworks remains another charming attraction of the festival.
