Onam is one of the most popular and significant harvest festivals of Kerala. It is essentially a ten day festival celebrated with great fervor all over the state between August and September. The festival is essentially celebrated by the people to welcome the homecoming of their dearest legendry King Mahabali into their homes. It is believed that the spirit of the king visits the homes of the people at the time of Onam. During the festival, various activities are organized such as the boat racing, music, dance, fireworks and lots more.
History and Rituals behind the Celebration of Onam Festival
According to the legend, in the ancient times, Kerala was ruled by the demon King Mahabali. During his rule, everybody in his kingdom lived happier with zero feeling of hatred and there was people complete harmony. However, the Gods feared the wise king, thinking that he might become dominant and all-powerful one day. They decided to seek the help of the Lord Vishnu to suppress the powers of the king. Lord Vishnu took the form of dwarf Brahmin (also known as the Vamana avatar of the Lord). Impressed with the knowledge and intelligence of the Brahmin, the king asked him to make a wish and he will fulfill it any cost.
The Vamana asked for the three foot of land and the king agreed to give the same. At that time, the body size of the Brahmin grew larger and large. By one foot step, he measured the whole sky, in his second step, he covered the entire earth. The king at once understood that the Brahmin was not an ordinary person and was Lord Vishnu himself. The third step of the Lord could have gone on to damage the whole earth. To avert the grave danger or save the earth, the king offered his head to the Lord to measure. As soon as the Lord placed his foot over the King’s head he was pushed into the underworld (pataal). However, the king loved his people and was very much attached to his kingdom. He was allowed by the Gods to visit his favorite kingdom once in a year. Onam is the day, when the king is believed to return and visit the houses of the people.
Post Your Comments