Onam 2023: Embrace the Colours and Traditions of Kerala's Vibrant Harvest Festival
Onam 2023: Thiruvonam Date, Story and Significance of the fe ..
India is a land of myriad cultures and diverse traditions, with each state having its unique festival and celebrations. Among these festivals, Onam stands as one of the most significant and popular events in the southern state of Kerala. Onam is celebrated annually by the Malayali community across the world, and 2023 marks another year of the grand festivities. In this article, we delve into the history, significance, and celebration of the upcoming festival of Onam 2023.
Date and Story:
Onam is celebrated in the month of Chingam, the first month of the Malayalam calendar, which usually coincides with August-September in the Gregorian calendar. This year, Onam falls on September 7, 2023, and is celebrated on the 10th day of the festival, which is known as Thiruvonam.
The origin of Onam dates back to the mythological era of King Mahabali. King Mahabali was a just and beloved ruler, who turned Kerala into a utopian state with his rule. However, the gods feared that his power and popularity may challenge their authority and hence decided to test and thwart him. Lord Vishnu took the form of a dwarf named Vamana and asked the king for three paces of the land. The king agreed and Vamana grew in size, covering the earth and the sky, and took the three paces, causing Mahabali to lose his kingdom and be banished to the netherworld. However, the gods, impressed with his just rule, bestowed on Mahabali a boon to visit his kingdom and subjects once a year. It is said that Thiruvonam marks the day when King Mahabali visits his land and blesses his people.
Significance and Celebration:
Onam is a ten-day festival, with each day marked by unique rituals and customs. The festival is a celebration of the harvest season and the return of King Mahabali to bless his people. The celebrations involve communal feasts, cultural programs, and vibrant decorations in every household and street corner in Kerala. People wear traditional clothes, with women wearing white sarees with the gold border, and men donning traditional mundus and shirts. The pookalam, a colorful depiction of Onam's floral carpet made of different flowers arranged in intricate patterns, is created in every home to welcome King Mahabali.
The final day of the festival, Thiruvonam, is the most important and grand celebration. People prepare a traditional meal called Onam Sadhya, which is a lavish spread of over 20 dishes served on a banana leaf. The sadhya is a crucial tradition that brings together people from all walks of life. People also participate in cultural programs like folk dance, boat races and games like tug of war and piththu, making for a festive atmosphere all around.
Onam signifies the unity and harmony among people, regardless of caste and creed. It reinforces the belief in prosperity, kindness, and oneness, and it serves as a reminder of goodness and togetherness in all aspects of life.
In conclusion, Onam is a grand festival that celebrates the essence of Kerala and the spirit of togetherness and prosperity. The festival showcases the rich culture, traditions, and customs of the Malayali community, and it is an event that every individual should witness and experience at least once in their lifetime.
Follow our social media accounts:
Comments
Post a Comment