Onam 2023: The Backstory and History

 

Residents of the southern state of Kerala are currently observing Onam, a festival that signifies the conclusion of the monsoon period and the onset of the harvest season. The 10-day-long celebration, known as Onam, will conclude on Tuesday (August 29) with the final day called Thiruvonam. Commencing on August 20 with Atham, the festivities serve as an occasion for feasting and strengthening cultural ties, uniting individuals from diverse backgrounds.

On August 28, Uthradam was celebrated, marking the second-to-last day of the festival. This day holds great significance, as it involves the welcoming of the spirit of King Mahabali, a just and generous ruler renowned as the embodiment of the "Sukrutha Yuga" or the golden era.

The history of the Onam festival centers around the commemoration of the homecoming of Asura King Mahabali from the Patal Lok, an underground realm. Despite being a demon king, Mahabali was renowned for his benevolence, and his reign was considered a golden era for Kerala. This is the underlying reason for the widespread celebration of his return.

According to legend, King Mahabali conquered the three worlds and defeated the Gods, leading to their resentment. They sought the assistance of Lord Vishnu to confront the demon king. Since Mahabali was a devotee of Lord Vishnu, he faced a dilemma in choosing sides in the battle.

Consequently, Lord Vishnu assumed his Vamana avatar, appearing as a humble Brahmin, and visited King Mahabali. In this form, Vishnu requested property rights over a piece of land that could be covered in "three paces." Mahabali agreed. However, Vamana expanded in size and encompassed everything the king ruled in just two steps. True to his word, Mahabali then offered his head for the third step. This act of devotion impressed Lord Vishnu, who granted him the opportunity to return to the earthly realm once every year, an event celebrated as Onam.

Significance of Onam:

Onam holds profound religious importance within the Kerala community. The observance of this festival serves as an expression of gratitude to the land for bestowing a bountiful harvest. During these celebrations, individuals partake in prayers dedicated to Lord Vamana and the revered King Mahabali. These supplications are made with the intention of safeguarding the health and enduring prosperity of their family members.