Onam, an exuberant 10-day harvest festival observed by the Malayali community in Kerala, India, brings forth Thiru-Onam or Thiruvonam. This festival heralds the annual return of King Mahabali, a benevolent monarch who, sent to the netherworld by Lord Vishnu, graces his people with a visit once a year. Aligned with the month of Chingam, which aligns with August or September in the Gregorian calendar, Onam’s 2023 edition spans from August 20 to August 31.
Onam radiates joy, gratitude, and prosperity, celebrated through cultural and spiritual activities like:
– Pookalam: Commencing with Atham, the first day of Onam, this entails crafting intricate floral carpets or rangolis outside homes. With each passing day, a new layer of flowers is added, culminating on the tenth day, Thiruvonam.
– Vallamkali: A thrilling boat race, notably the snake boat race, ensues on the Pamba River. This grand spectacle showcases the prowess and coordination of rowers and drummers. The renowned Aranmula Uthrattathi Vallamkali stands out, occurring on Uthradom, the penultimate day of Onam.
– Pulikali: Dancers transform into wild creatures through painted stripes and spots, resembling tigers and leopards. Accompanied by rhythmic drumbeats, these performers captivate the audience. Chodhi, the fourth day of Onam, hosts the vibrant Pulikali.
– Onam Sadya: A lavish vegetarian feast, served on banana leaves, boasts an array of dishes prepared by women of the household. Thiruvonam, the pinnacle of Onam, witnesses the grand Sadya.
– Athachamayam: A royal parade near Kochi’s Thripunithura pays homage to Onam’s legends, featuring ornate floats, elephants, folk dancers, musicians, and artists. The Atham day of Onam hosts this vivid procession.
– Kathakali: An elaborate dance-drama enacts tales from Hindu epics, adorned with intricate costumes, makeup, gestures, and expressions. Throughout Onam, Kathakali performances captivate audiences.
– Thiruvathirakali: Women partake in a circular dance around lamps or floral embellishments, conveying devotion and love, symbolizing Parvati’s yearning for Shiva. Thiruvathirakali graces the Thiruvathira day of Onam.
Onam reveres Kerala’s rich heritage and culture, fostering gratitude for abundant harvests and the exchange of joy and goodwill. The festival pays homage to the noble King Mahabali, epitomizing generosity, righteousness, and justice.
The name “Onam” mirrors the Sanskrit words for “to rise” or “to ascend,” encapsulating the festival’s spirit of renewal and hope. This occasion involves donning new attire, sharing gifts, visiting kin and companions, and partaking in spirited games and contests.
In 2023, Onam stands as a remarkable observance, coinciding with India’s 75th independence anniversary. An ideal platform to spotlight Kerala’s contributions and accomplishments in the nation’s journey of progress and advancement.
Onam 2023 emerges as a distinctive celebration, transpiring amid the backdrop of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. A testament to Kerala’s resilience and unity, the festivities must navigate safety protocols and social distancing measures while embracing the jubilation.
Onam 2023 etches itself as a cherished memory, a tapestry woven with joy, gratitude, and prosperity. A tribute to Kerala’s resplendent festival, encapsulating its vibrant past, present, and promising future.