ONAM

For the people of Kerala, Onam brings in a period of festivities. These festivities that begin in the month of
Shravan, corresponding to August or September, every year, last for 15 days. Keralities believe that King Mahabali, who ruled them thousands of years ago and showered prosperity on them would be visiting their homes, incognito during this period. To welcome King Mahabali, people decorate their homes with baloons and festoons, for the entrance of the house that Mahabali enters should have an attractive look.

Mahabali was the king of Mahabalipuram, thousands of years ago. He was very powerful and had his sway over all the three 'lokas' - heaven, earth and hell. According to legend, Indra's mother felt that Mahabali may take away Indra's throne and approached Lord Vishnu for help. To help Indra, Lord Vishnu transformed himself into a young brahmin bachelor (Vaman Avatar) and went to the King Mahabali who was conducting 'yagna'. Knowing that Mahabali was a very generous king, the brahmin (Lord Vishnu) begged him to grant him three steps of land. The king granted the brahmin the three steps of land that he asked for.

Then, measuring the heaven with one step, the brahmin measured the earth with his other step. He then asked Mahabali where he should put his foot for the remaining third step. Recognizing the brahmin as Lord Vishnu, the king offered his head for the brahmin's third step, feeling that he would be blessed with the heavenly touch of lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu, taking this opportunity, pushed Mahabali to 'patal' with his foot, of course with a boon that the king would be allowed to visit his kingdom once in a year.

Onam is celebrated to welcome King Mahabali, with the people rejoicing the arrival of their former king. The domestic animals too are decorated to welcome Mahabali. The famous boat races of Kerala are conducted as part of this festival. The festivities of Onam, continue in I he nights too with the streets being lighted, reminding one of Diwali.