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Onam is a festival deeply woven into the cultural fabric of Kerala, carrying stories, memories, and traditions that transcend generations. The fragrance of fresh flowers and the sight of children rushing out in the morning to collect petals for the “pookkalam” may be rare in today’s fast-moving world. Yet, for Malayalees across the globe, Onam is far more than just another festival — it is an emotional bridge that connects the mythical past, the cultural ethos of Kerala, and countless cherished memories.

Every Onam season evokes remembrance of a bygone golden era of prosperity, equality, and happiness under the reign of the benevolent demon king, Mahabali. According to legend, Onam marks the annual return of Mahabali, under whose rule the land flourished in peace and harmony.

Mythology tells us that envious of his growing popularity, the Devas (Gods) sought Lord Vishnu’s help to banish Mahabali to the netherworld. However, before departing, the noble king secured a boon from Vishnu — permission to return once every year to visit his beloved subjects on Thiruvonam day. The story of Mahabali is not only a lesson in the triumph of humility over pride but also a lasting memory of a king who embodied fairness and welfare for his people. Thus, Onam is more than a harvest festival or ritualistic observance; it is also a tribute to an era remembered for justice, equality, and joy. Falling in the Malayalam month of Chingam, Onam coincides with Kerala’s lush green landscape after the monsoon rains.

Traditionally, it is celebrated over ten days, beginning with Atham and culminating in the grandeur of Thiruvonam.

The colourful pookkalam (floral carpets) laid at the entrances of homes, the sumptuous vegetarian sadya served on banana leaves, the thrilling vallamkali (snake boat race), the evergreen pulikali (tiger dance), and the graceful kaikottikali performed by women in traditional attire around oil lamps — all stand as cultural emblems of the season.

Though modernisation has reshaped many customs, the essence of Onam endures through the nostalgia carried by generations. The sound of folk songs, the lip-smacking aroma of the feast, and the warmth of shared stories make Onam much more than a festival for Keralites. Whether through grand public festivities or simple family gatherings, Malayalees across the globe celebrate Onam, keeping alive not only the memory of a beloved king but also the timeless spirit of unity and joy.

This year’s Onam festivities began with the traditional Athachamayam procession at Tripunithura in Kochi on August 26, marking the start of the ten-day celebrations. The vibrant rally featured caparisoned elephants, floats, and dazzling folk-dance performances. In the erstwhile royal era, the Maharaja of Kochi himself took part in the Athachamayam procession, which stretched from Tripunithura to the Vamanamoorthy Temple at Thrikkakara.

As part of this year’s celebrations, the LDF government announced a series of measures to make Onam more affordable for ordinary people. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan assured that no family would be left out of the joy of the season, while state-run Supplyco stocked nearly 2.5 lakh quintals of food grains for Onam preparations.

Onam, therefore, remains not only a harvest celebration but also a cultural reminder of Kerala’s shared heritage — a time when nostalgia, myth, and community spirit merge into one of the most cherished festivals of India.