Why and When Onam is celebrated?
Onam, a traditional harvest festival celebrated in the South Indian state of Kerala, holds great cultural significance. The festival usually falls in the month of August or September, depending on the Malayalam calendar. In 2025, Onam will be celebrated from Tuesday, 26 August, – Fri, 5 Sept.
Onam is a significant festival celebrated in the southern Indian state of Kerala. But why is Onam celebrated with such fervor and enthusiasm? Let's delve into the reasons behind this joyous occasion.
What is the significance of Onam?
Onam is a harvest festival that marks the homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali. According to legend, King Mahabali was a generous and just ruler who was loved by his people. Onam is celebrated to welcome King Mahabali and to commemorate his reign of prosperity and equality.
How is Onam celebrated?
Onam is a ten-day festival filled with various rituals and traditions. The most iconic aspect of Onam is the elaborate floral carpet known as 'Pookalam' that is created in front of homes to welcome King Mahabali. People also indulge in traditional dance forms like Kathakali and boat races known as Vallam Kali.
What is the significance of the Onam Sadhya?
The Onam Sadhya is a grand feast served on banana leaves that consists of a variety of vegetarian dishes. The Sadhya is a symbol of unity and equality as people from all walks of life come together to partake in this elaborate meal.
Why is Onam important?
Onam is not just a festival; it is a celebration of Kerala's rich culture and heritage. It brings people together, irrespective of caste, creed, or religion, to revel in the spirit of unity and harmony. Onam is a time for reflection, gratitude, and spreading joy and happiness.
Onam is a time of joy and festivities in Kerala. People decorate their homes with intricate flower carpets called 'Pookalam' and prepare a grand feast known as 'Onasadya'. Traditional dance forms like Kathakali and Pulikali are performed, and boat races called 'Vallamkali' are organized.
During Onam, people also participate in various cultural activities like tug of war, folk songs, and traditional games. The festival is a time for families to come together, exchange gifts, and seek the blessings of elders.
So, the next time you witness the colorful festivities of Onam, remember the deep-rooted significance behind this joyous occasion.
What are the key dates for Onam 2025?
Onam is a 10-day festival with each day holding its own importance. The key dates for Onam 2025 are as follows:
August 26th, Tuesday: Atham - The first day of the festival
September 5th, Friday: Thiru Onam - The main and last day of the festival
What makes Onam celebrations special?
Onam is not just a festival; it is a reflection of Kerala's rich cultural heritage and traditions. The spirit of unity and harmony is evident during Onam, as people from all walks of life come together to celebrate. The vibrant colors, delicious food, and lively performances make Onam a truly unique and memorable experience.
As Onam 2025 approaches, the excitement and anticipation among the people of Kerala are palpable. It is a time to rejoice, reconnect with loved ones, and revel in the beauty of this ancient festival.
This year 2025 onam, the 10 days celebration are as follows:
- Day 1: Atham, the day when the celebrations begin
- Day 2: Chithira, the day when houses are cleaned
- Day 3: Chodhi
- Day 4: Vishakam
- Day 5: Anizham
- Day 6: Thriketta
- Day 7: Moolam
- Day 8: Pooradam
- Day 9: Uthradam
- Day 10: Thiruvonam, the day when the celebrations end