Vibrant and colorful harvest festival
of Onam is celebrated in the beginning of the first
month of Malayalam Calendar (Kolla Varsham) called
Chingam. This corresponds with the month of
August-September according to Gregorian Calendar and
the sixth month of Indian (Hindu) Calendar called
Bhadrapada or Bhadon.
Reckoning the Day of Thiru Onam
Onam carnival continues for ten days, starting from
the day of Atham and culminating on Thiru Onam. These
are the most important days for the festivities. The
day of Atham is decided by the position of stars.
The festival commences from lunar asterism (a cluster
of stars smaller than a constellation) Atham (Hastha)
that appears ten days before asterism Onam or Thiru
Onam. Atham is regarded as auspicious and holy day
by people of Kerala. Onam corresponds to Shravan day
in the month of August or September, hence it is also
called Sravanotsavam.
At this time sun is in the Zodiac sign of Leo (Simha
rasi), which happens to be the sun's house as well.
Significance of the Day in Mythology
The day is decided in accordance with the legend of
King Mahabali in whose honor Onam is celebrated. People
believe that it was this particular day in the month
of Chingam when Lord Vishnu took his fifth avatar
as Vaamana, appeared in the kingdom of King Mahabali
and send him to nether world.
People believe that it is on the last day, Tiruonam
that the spirit of King Maveli visits Kerala, hence
the day is marked by feast and festivities. Devotees
of Maveli celebrate the golden era witnessed in Maveli's
reign during Onam. To welcome their revered ruler,
people lay flower mats (Pookalam) in the front courtyard,
prepare a grand meal (Onasadya), dance, play and make
merry. All this is done to impress upon King Mahabali
that his people are prosperous and happy.
A Brief History of Onam
It is believed that Onam celebrations started during
the Sangam Period. Record of celebrations can be found
from the time of Kulasekhara Perumals (800 AD). At
that time Onam celebrations continued for a month.
Harvest Time
As it is a harvest season, the beautiful state of
Kerala can be seen in its magnificent best. Weather
is pleasantly sunny and warm calling for mirth and
celebrations. Fields look brilliant as they glow with
golden paddy grains. It is also the boom time of fruits
and flowers. After the month of deprivation, Karkidakam
(last month of Malayalam Calendar), farmers are happy
with a bountiful harvest and celebrate the festival
to the hilt.
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