Celebrate the annual harvest and Indian culture on Onam 2024 with Wedding Affair!
Onam, the official festival of the state of Kerala is celebrated for ten days annually. While the festival is organised to celebrate the agricultural harvest it is also celebrated mythologically. The celebrations begin from atham asterism in the Malayali month of Chingam (August/September) as per the local calendar and bring out the best of the culture and traditions of Kerala.
Why is Onam Celebrated?
While one of the most important reasons for this celebration is to celebrate and be thankful for the agricultural harvest, Onam also goes back to Indian mythology. As per myths, King Mahabali or Maveli was a generous and virtuous ruler, who had once ruled Kerala. During his rule, the kingdom became so prosperous that devas (gods of the Heaven) felt jealous about this and also for the reason that King Mahabali was an asura – a member of the demon clan – who were the enemies of devas. So, they sent Lord Vishnu in the guise of Vamana (a dwarf) to King Mahabali.
As an offering from the generous king, Vamana requested Mahabali for three feet of land. At the time of measuring the three feet of land, Vamana grew so huge that he measured all the world in two steps. Since he had nowhere else to place his third step, Mahabali asked Vamana to place it on his head. Pleased by his benevolence, Vamana blessed Mahabali before he was sent to the nether world and permitted him to visit his dear subjects once a year. Thus, it is believed that during the time of Onam, King Mahabali arrives on earth to celebrate with his subjects.
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When is Onam?
In 2024, Onam will be celebrated from September 6, 2024 (Friday) to September 15, 2024 (Sunday).
What Happens During Onam?
Onam is a state-wide celebration, featuring delicious feasts, enthralling dances and engaging competitions. People display a variety of dances like Kathakali, Kummatti Kali, Pulikali and more. Families prepare a nine-course strictly vegetarian meal on Onasadya to offer to King Mahabali. Houses are decorated every day with Pookalam, rangoli made with a variety of colourful flowers. Additionally, people catch up on attractions like the Vallamkali or Snake Boat Race and the regal elephant procession at Thrissur, the cultural capital of the state.
Read Also: 6 Onam Traditional Dress Ideas to Revamp Your Ethnic Look
We hope every household is filled with an abundance of resources, togetherness and happiness on this auspicious occasion. Team Wedding Affair wishes all, a very happy Onam!
