Onam 2026

Onam Festival

Onam is one of the most important and colorful festivals celebrated in the Indian state of Kerala. It is a harvest festival that marks the homecoming of the legendary King Mahabali, whose reign is believed to have been a time of peace, prosperity, and happiness. Onam reflects the rich culture, traditions, and unity of the people of Kerala and is celebrated with great joy by people of all religions and communities.

Onam usually falls in the Malayalam month of Chingam, which corresponds to August or September. The festival lasts for ten days, with each day having its own special significance. Homes are cleaned and decorated beautifully. One of the most attractive features of Onam is the making of Pookalam, which are colorful flower rangolis arranged in front of houses to welcome King Mahabali.

Many cultural activities take place during the festival. People wear new clothes called Onakkodi, sing traditional songs, and perform folk dances such as Thiruvathira and Pulikali (tiger dance). One of the most exciting events is the Vallam Kali or snake boat race, where long boats filled with rowers compete in rivers. This event attracts thousands of spectators every year.

Food also plays an important role in Onam celebrations. Families prepare a grand feast known as Onasadya, which is served on banana leaves. The meal includes many delicious vegetarian dishes like sambar, avial, thoran, pachadi, and payasam. The feast brings families and friends together to share happiness and togetherness.

Onam teaches values such as unity, gratitude, and respect for traditions. It reminds people of Kerala’s glorious past and encourages them to live in harmony with one another. The festival spreads joy and strengthens the bond among communities.

In conclusion, Onam is not just a festival but a celebration of culture, heritage, and togetherness. It brings people closer and fills their hearts with happiness and hope.

• Mahabali’s kingdom was a golden age with equality and happiness.

• The gods, jealous of his popularity, sent Vamana (an avatar of Vishnu) to humble him.

• Mahabali was pushed to the netherworld but granted permission to visit his people once every year.

• Onam marks this yearly visit, and people celebrate to welcome him.

Onam lasts 10 days, from Atham to Thiruvonam, with some celebrations extending beyond.

1. Onam Pookalam (Floral rangoli)
Colorful flower designs made in front of homes daily, growing more elaborate each day.

2. Onam Sadya (Grand feast)
A traditional vegetarian banquet served on banana leaves.
Typical dishes include:

• Rice

• Sambar

• Avial

• Thoran

• Olan

• Kootu curry

• Pachadi

• Pickles

• Pappadam

• Payasam (dessert)

Usually 20+ onam food items.

3. Onam Vallam Kali (Snake boat races)
Long traditional boats rowed in rhythm—very iconic and competitive.

4. Onam Traditional games & dances

• Pulikali (tiger dance)

• Kaikottikali/Thiruvathira dance

• Tug of war, folk games

5. Onam New clothes (Onakkodi)
People wear new traditional attire:

• Kasavu saree for women

• Mundu for men