Late August or early September marks some high-spirited celebrations down south. People in the southern Indian coastal state of Kerala go crazy over the state festival of Onam, with ten days of feasting, boat races, song, dance and merriment.
THE ORIGIN OF ONAM
Onam or Thiruonam originated as a joyous annual reminiscence of the golden rule of King Mahabali, a mythical king, who ruled Kerala a very long time ago. It recalls the sacrifice of the great king, his true devotion to God, his human pride and his ultimate redemption. Onam welcomes the spirit of a great king, and assures him that his people are happy and wish him well.
THE LEGEND
Facts and fables blend as Kerala celebrates this royal return, year after with the festivities of Onam. Legend has it that the Gods plotted against Mahabali to end his reign. For this they sent Lord Vishnu to earth in the form of a dwarf Brahmin. But before being trampled down to another world, Vishnu granted the King’s sole wish: “To visit his land and people once every year.”
THE CUSTOM
A flower carpet called ‘Pookalam’ is laid in front of every house to welcome the advent of the vanquished King, and earthen mounds representing Mahabali and Vishnu are placed in the dung-plastered courtyards. Traditional rituals are performed followed by a lavish feast called ‘Sadhya’. Onam also means new clothes for the whole family, sumptuous home-cooked delicacies on plantain leaf and the lingering aroma of the sweet ‘Payasam.’
ONAM IS FOR ALL
Although this festival has its origin in Hindu mythology, Onam is for all people of all class and creed. Hindus, Muslims and Christians, the wealthy and the downtrodden, all celebrate Onam with equal fervor. The secular character of Onam is peculiar to this land where unity had always co-existed with diversity, especially during festivals, when people come together to celebrate life’s unlimited joys.
WISH YOU ALL A VERY HAPPY AND PROPEROUS ONAM FROM CENT TECHNOLOGIES PRIVATE LTD, INFOPARK, KORATTY....
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