Onam Festival 2025 is a harvest and cultural festival of Kerala. Know the 10 days of Onam traditions, the story of King Mahabali and its specialties.
Onam Festival 2025 starts on August 26 this year and ends on September 5. It is the most important festival of South India, especially Kerala, which is also known as the festival of new harvest. The 10-day festival features cultural programs, boat races, pookkalam (flower decoration), and traditional food.
Importance of Onam Festival
Onam is not just a religious festival, but it is a symbol of the hard work of farmers, unity of society and culture. Be it Hindus, Muslims or Christians – every community celebrates this festival together.
Significance of 10 days of Onam festival
Atham (first day): Pookkalam (flower rangoli) is decorated in the house.
Chithira (second day): More flowers are added to the decoration.
Chodi (third day): People exchange gifts and clothes.
Vishakam (fourth day): Cultural programs begin.
Anizham (fifth day): The famous Vallamkali (boat race) is held.
Thrikketta (sixth day): Families and relatives start gathering.
Moolam (seventh day): Celebrations take place in temples and public places.
Pooradam (eighth day): Onam celebrations reach their peak.
Uthradam (ninth day): The eve of the arrival of King Mahabali.
Thiruvonam (tenth day): The most important day, when King Mahabali is welcomed.
Why is Onam Festival special?
Festival of welcoming the new harvest. State Festival of Kerala, celebrated by people of all religions together. 25-30 dishes served on banana leaves. Pulikali (Tiger Dance), Kathakali, Thiruvathira and boat race add to its beauty. Message of social equality and brotherhood.
Mythology of Onam Festival
There is a mythological belief that King Mahabali was a just and kind ruler. Lord Vishnu took the form of Vaman and asked him for three steps of land. Mahabali offered his head in the third step. Lord Vishnu blessed him that he would be able to visit his subjects every year on Onam.