Onam, the biggest and the most important festival of Kerala, is celebrated each year from late August until early September. Onam is dedicated to the precious memory of King Mahabali who is known for his unfailing generosity. It is believed that on the festival day, he will bless the people with happiness. Onam also used to be the harvest festival, which is why it is celebrated with particular enthusiasm and joy all over the state.
Festival Highlights
The festival lasts from four to ten days and is celebrated with much enthusiasm. The first day and tenth day, known as Thiruvonam, are most important. The general impression of the event is that all of Kerala takes part in the festive activities. Check out the snake boat races, folk dances, songs, delicious foods, and games during Onam. Another fun tradition is designing flower mats called Pookalam in the front courtyard of a house to welcome the King. Pookalam is made out of blossoms, arranged like a rug. A lamp is placed in the middle, and a miniature umbrella is hanging over it.
Aranmula Uthrattadhi Snake Boat Race (September 18, 2024)
Snake Boat Races, or Vallamkali are often held during Onam. Aranmula Uthrattadhi Boat Race is one of the most popular. The race takes place in Aranmula village, on the banks of the River Pampa in the Pathanamthitta district. The race is dedicated to Lord Krishna of Sree Parthasarathy Temple. The traditional boats used in the race are called palliyodams.
Nehru Trophy (August 10, 2024)
Nehru Trophy is another snake boat race held on the Punnamada Lake near Alappuzha. Always taking place on the second Saturday of August, the race attracts thousands of people. 100-ft-long boats show off their speed while numerous rowers sing traditional songs. In 1952, the race was attended by Jawaharlal Nehru, who got into one of the snake boats himself and later donated a silver trophy. Since then, the race is named after him.
Onam Sadya
A fascinating part of the Onam celebration is Onam Sadya. It is a big feast—a nine-course meal consisting of 11 to 13 main dishes with seasonal foods like yam, ash gourd, and cucumber. Onam Sadya is served on banana leaves and people eat their meal while sitting on a mat laid on the floor.
The government of India promotes Onam internationally in a big way and even 'Tourist Week’ is celebrated in Kerala during the event. Thousands of native and foreign tourists visit Kerala to join the festival. Indeed, it is a treat to be a part of the grand carnival. People do their best to celebrate the festival on a noble scale and let the King know that they wish him well.
