Onam 2024: Date, Stories, Rituals and Ten Days of Celebrations

Onam is a vibrant and culturally rich festival celebrated predominantly in the southern Indian state of Kerala. This annual harvest festival, which usually falls in August or September, is marked by ten days of festivities, showcasing the best of Kerala’s cultural heritage. Onam transcends religious and social barriers, bringing together people of all communities in a spirit of joy, unity, and gratitude.

When will Onam be celebrated in 2024?

The Onam festival will commence on September 05, 2024 and will continue till September 17, 2024. The main celebrations are due to occur on September 15, 2024 on Thiruvonam Day or the Sacred Onam Day.

The Legend of King Mahabali

The heart of Onam's celebrations revolves around the legend of King Mahabali, a benevolent and just ruler who once governed Kerala. According to folklore, Mahabali’s reign was marked by prosperity, happiness and equality. He was loved by his subjects, and his kingdom was so perfect that even the gods became envious.

To curb Mahabali’s growing influence, Lord Vishnu, in his Vamana avatar, a dwarf Brahmin, visited the king and asked for three paces of land. The kind-hearted king granted the wish, and Vamana grew to a cosmic size, covering the earth and the heavens in two steps. For the third step, Mahabali offered his own head, thus keeping his promise.

Pleased with Mahabali’s devotion and sacrifice, Vishnu granted him the boon to visit his people once a year. Onam marks this annual homecoming of King Mahabali.

Ten Days of Celebrations

Onam festivities span ten days, each with its unique rituals and significance:

1) Atham: The first day of Onam, marked by the creation of the Pookalam (floral rangoli). The Pookalam starts small and grows larger with each passing day, symbolising the gradual preparation to welcome King Mahabali.

2) Chithira: On the second day, additional flowers are added to the Pookalam. Families begin cleaning their homes in preparation for the festival.

3) Chodhi: New clothes, known as Onakkodi, are purchased and given to family members. The Pookalam continues to grow in size and intricacy.

4) Vishakam: One of the most auspicious days, when preparations for the grand Onam feast, Onasadya, begin in full swing. Markets bustle with people buying ingredients.

5) Anizham: The day is marked by Vallamkali (snake boat races), one of Onam’s most iconic events. These boat races are a sight to behold, with teams rowing in perfect unison to traditional boat songs.

6) Thriketta: Families get together to offer prayers and make offerings at temples. The Pookalam continues to expand.

7) Moolam: Traditional art forms like Pulikali (tiger dance) and Kaikottikali (clap dance) are performed, adding to the festive spirit.

8) Pooradam: Statues of King Mahabali and Vamana are placed in the centre of the Pookalam, symbolising the nearing arrival of the beloved king.

9) Uthradam: Known as the eve of Onam, Uthradam is a day of hectic preparations. People buy fresh produce and finalise arrangements for the grand feast.

10) Thiruvonam: The most important day of the festival. Homes are cleaned, and the grand Onam Sadya feast is prepared. The Pookalam is completed, and families gather to enjoy the feast, offer prayers, and partake in various cultural activities.

The Grand Feast - Onasadya

The highlight of Onam is the Onasadya, a traditional vegetarian feast served on banana leaves. This elaborate meal consists of a variety of dishes, each adding to the rich culinary heritage of Kerala. The feast typically includes rice, sambar, avial (a mixed vegetable curry), thoran (a dry vegetable dish), olan (a dish made with ash gourd and coconut milk), and a variety of pickles and chutneys. The meal ends with Payasam, a sweet dish made from milk, rice, or lentils.

Cultural Extravaganza

Onam is not just about food and rituals; it is a cultural extravaganza. Traditional dance forms such as Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, classical music performances, and folk art forms are integral parts of the celebrations. Pulikali, where performers painted like tigers dance to traditional music, is a major attraction. The Vallamkali or snake boat races held in the backwaters of Kerala draw huge crowds and are a testament to the state's vibrant maritime culture.

Onam Games

Various traditional games and sports are played during Onam, collectively known as Onakalikal. These include Talappanthukali (a ball game), Ambeyyal (archery), Kutukutu (a form of Kabaddi), and Kayyankali (a form of wrestling). These games foster a sense of community and camaraderie among participants and spectators alike.

Onam’s Universal Appeal

While Onam is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology, it is celebrated with equal enthusiasm by people of all religions and communities in Kerala. The festival’s message of unity, equality, and shared prosperity resonates with everyone, making it a truly inclusive celebration.

Conclusion

Onam is a festival that beautifully displays the spirituality of Kerala. It is a time when the state comes alive with colour, music, dance and culinary delights. More than just a harvest festival, Onam is a celebration of life, community and the age-old values of generosity, compassion and unity. As the people of Kerala prepare to welcome King Mahabali each year, they also renew their commitment to the ideals of harmony and prosperity, ensuring that the legacy of this grand festival continues to shine brightly through the ages.

Written by Puja Paul