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Celebrating Onam: the Kerala Festival of Harvest and Prosperity

Onam, the grand festival of Kerala, is a vibrant celebration that honors the homecoming of the legendary King Mahabali. Falling on September 15th in 2024, Onam is a time for Keralites to unite in joy, partake in traditional rituals, and revel in the spirit of community and togetherness. This festival, which marks the harvest season, is a perfect blend of culture, tradition, and festivity.

Legend of Onam:

According to Hindu mythology, King Mahabali was a righteous and generous king belonging to the Asura (demon) clan. He was very popular among his subjects and was loved by all. He conquered all three worlds (heaven, earth, and underworld) with his power and virtue. However, this made the Devas (gods) jealous and insecure. They approached Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe, and asked him to help them regain their lost glory.

Lord Vishnu agreed to help the Devas but admired King Mahabali's devotion and generosity. He decided to test Mahabali's virtue by taking the form of a dwarf Brahmin named Vamana. He approached Mahabali during his yajna (sacrifice) and asked for three paces of land as alms. Mahabali readily agreed to grant Vamana's wish, as he was known for never refusing anyone who asked for anything from him.

However, Vamana was not an ordinary dwarf. He expanded himself to such an extent that he covered the entire earth with his first step and heaven with his second. He then asked Mahabali where he should place his third step. Mahabali realized that Vamana was none other than Lord Vishnu himself, and he offered his head as the third pace of land. Lord Vishnu was pleased with Mahabali's humility and sacrifice, and he granted him a boon that he could visit his kingdom once every year. This annual visit of Mahabali is celebrated as Onam by the people of Kerala.

Significance of Onam:

Onam is not just a festival; it is a symbol of Kerala's rich cultural heritage. It signifies the golden era of Mahabali's rule, where everyone was treated equally, and prosperity was abundant. The festival also marks the end of the monsoon season and the beginning of the harvest period, making it an occasion of great agricultural and cultural significance.

Onam Celebrations - Rituals and Traditions:

Onam is celebrated for ten days with various rituals and festivities. The first day of Onam is called Atham, which marks the beginning of the preparations for welcoming King Mahabali. The last day of Onam is called Thiruvonam, which is the most auspicious day of the festival. Some of the highlights of Onam celebrations are:

1. Pookalam:

The floral carpet, known as Pookalam, is one of the most iconic symbols of Onam. Families create intricate designs using fresh flowers, symbolizing the warmth and hospitality extended to King Mahabali.

2. Onasadya:

The grand feast, Onasadya, is an essential part of Onam celebrations. This multi-course vegetarian meal, served on banana leaves, includes a variety of dishes that reflect the rich culinary tradition of Kerala.

3. Vallamkali:

The famous boat race, Vallamkali, is a thrilling spectacle during Onam. Snake boats, rowed by hundreds of oarsmen, race through the backwaters, accompanied by traditional songs and enthusiastic spectators.

4. Thiruvathira Kali:

This traditional dance form is performed by women in a circular pattern around a lamp. It is a celebration of joy and unity, reflecting the cultural vibrancy of Kerala.

5. Pulikali:

Pulikali or tiger dance is a folk art form that showcases the skills and creativity of the artists. It involves men painting their bodies and faces like tigers and leopards and dancing to the beats of drums and other instruments. The dancers mimic the movements and gestures of the wild animals and entertain the spectators with their antics.

6.Onakkodi:

Onakkodi is the tradition of gifting new clothes to family members and friends on Onam. It is a way of expressing love and affection and wishing prosperity and happiness to loved ones.

Onam Pooja Procedure

Onam pooja is a ritual the devotees perform to worship Lord Vishnu and King Mahabali on Thiruvonam day. The pooja is done in the morning after bathing and wearing new clothes. The pooja procedure is as follows:

• Place an idol or a picture of Lord Vishnu and King Mahabali on a wooden platform or a pedestal in the pooja room or the courtyard.
• Decorate the idols or pictures with flowers, sandalwood paste, kumkum, etc.
• Light a lamp and incense sticks in front of the idols or pictures.
• Offer fruits, coconut, betel leaves, nuts, etc., as naivedyam (food offerings) to the idols or pictures.
• Chant the Vishnu Sahasranama (thousand names of Lord Vishnu) or any other mantra dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
• Perform aarti (waving of lamps) to the idols or pictures with devotion and reverence.
• Pray to Lord Vishnu and King Mahabali for their blessings and grace.
• Distribute the prasad (sacred food) to the family members and guests.

Benefits of Onam Pooja

Devotees perform Onam pooja to express gratitude and devotion to Lord Vishnu and King Mahabali for their kindness and generosity. By performing Onam pooja, one can attain the following benefits:

• Peace and harmony in the family and society
• Prosperity and abundance in all aspects of life
• Protection from evil forces and enemies
• Removal of obstacles and difficulties
• Fulfillment of desires and wishes
• Spiritual growth and enlightenment

Blessings and Joy:

Onam is a time for families to come together, exchange gifts, and seek blessings for a prosperous year ahead. The festival promotes values of love, equality, and generosity, making it a joyous occasion for everyone.

Things to Do:

Participate in Pookalam Competitions:

Join in the fun by creating or judging floral designs in your local community.

Attend Cultural Events:

From Kathakali performances to traditional music concerts, Onam offers a plethora of cultural events to enjoy.

Indulge in Onasadya:

Whether cooking at home or dining out, savor the traditional Onasadya feast with family and friends.

Experience Vallamkali:

If you're in Kerala, don't miss the boat races that are a highlight of Onam festivities.

Conclusion:

As you prepare to celebrate Onam on September 15th, 2024, remember that this festival is not just about rituals and traditions; it is about the spirit of togetherness and the joy of sharing. Let this Onam bring happiness, prosperity, and peace to your home.

For those looking to perform traditional rituals or seek blessings during this auspicious time, Sulekha Astro and Priest Services is here to assist you. Connect with experienced priests and astrologers who can guide you in celebrating Onam with authenticity and devotion.