Onam 2014
In the South India state of Kerala, the biggest regional festival is called Onam, which is also referred to Kerala’s harvest festival. Onam is most commonly celebrated by Hindu Malayalees living in Kerala or even abroad. The festival’s main significance is the home-coming of King Mahabali. Onam is a Hindu festival, but over the years has become mainstream and celebrated by residents of Kerala of various cultures and religions. However, the festival is still mainly celebrated by Hindus and has many religious practices ingrained in it as well as a vegetarian-based festive menu.
Onam is also celebrated as the day of advent of Vamana and Bali in Hinduism. It marks the beginning of a new life. The festival is all about celebrating on the grand Onasadya (Onam feast), shopping, social reunions and welcoming King Mahabali by spreading good blessings. Onam is a 10 day festival and starts on Atham day, 10 days before Thiruvonam. The days days are broken down as the following: Day 1: Atham, Day 2:Chithira, Day 3: Chodhi, Day 4: Vishakam, Day 5: Anizham, Day 6: Thriketa, Day 7: Moolam, Day 8: Pooradam, Day 9: Uthradom and Day 10: Thiruvonam. In 2014, Onam begins its festivities on September 7th and ends September 16th.
Onasadya is a great part of the Onam festival. Thiruvonam is the important day of Onam, where a feast of various dishes is organized in each household. Decorations can be seen everywhere in the form of ‘rangolis’ (with colored rice paste) and ‘pookkalams’ (with flowers) in front and inside of the homes. There is a tradition of bestowing Onakkodi (new clothes especially purchased for Onam) upon the younger members of family by the elder ones.
The Chakra News team wishes everyone a blessed and joyful Onam and harvest season.
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