KERALA: Onam is a harvest festival primarily observed in Kerala. The event, which happens on the 22nd Nakshatra Thiruvonam, marks the start of the Malayam year, known as Kolla Varsham, according to the Malayali calendar month of Chingam. One of the largest festivities, it represents the return of the demon king Mahabali. Malayalis and Keralites observe it for ten days. The festival this year began on August 30 and will end on September 8.

"The main harvest festival in Kerala is called Onam, and it is observed as a national holiday across the entire nation, regardless of caste, religion, or community. It is a celebration of Keralan culture and heritage and is characterised by immense fervour and joy."

It starts on Atham and finishes on Thiru Onam or Thiruvonam, the tenth day of the Onam festival, which is regarded as the most auspicious day. The event is held in honour of the benevolent demon King Mahabali, who legend has it will visit Kerala for these ten days.

According to legend, Kerala had its golden era during the sovereignty of King Mahabali, and Onam marks the King's annual visit to see his subjects. All through the years, Onam has become one-single festival celebrated by all sections of Kerala people. Onam is also celebrated by Keralites with high spirit and enthusiasm even under social distancing.

Onam is a harvest as well as divine festival from God's own country, Kerala. It is the time of the year when Kerala is elated with trumpets, drums, art,dance, music, boat races, floral carpets, lights, colours, rituals and the delicious Onasadya without which the celebrations are unfinished. Onam is welcomed with a various range of activities and celebrated with immense pomp and fervor. The spirit of Onam is worldwide regardless of caste and creed.

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