Onam, the famous festival of harvest is annually celebrated by people in Kerala. As per the Malayalam calendar, the festival falls in the Chingam month that usually comes during the months of August-September.
Drawing from Hindu mythology and manuscripts, the day marks the grand homecoming of the famous king Mahabali to Kerala. The festivities last for ten days and involve elaborate decorations, music, dance and delicious food. This year it will be celebrated on 21st August, with festivities that began on 12th August and will conclude on 23rd August.
Each day has a distinct name and involves different activities as a mark of celebration.
The first day (12th August) is known as Atham and people begin the celebrations by decorating their homes with yellow flowers called Pookalam.
On the second day (13th August), Chithira is when people clean their houses.
On Chodi, the third day (14th August), people shop and exchange gifts with their loved ones.
The fourth day (15th August) is called Vishakam that marks the preparation of Onam Sadhya.
On the fifth day (16th August), known as Anizham, is when people hold the annual boat race known as the Vallamkali boat race.
The sixth day (17th August) which is called Thriketta is when schools are shut, and preparations begin in full swing.
Moolam, the seventh day (18th August) marks the beginning of Onam Sadhya and sees several performances all over the state.
The eighth day (19th August) of Onam is called Pooradam and on this day the devotees make clay idols and place them over the Pookalam.
On the ninth day (20th August) which is also known as Uthradom is when people start preparing festive meals and is the penultimate day to Thiruvonam.
The tenth day (21st August) is called Thiruvonam and is the most important of all the days. People offer prayers and enjoy a special feast on this day.
The Onam days are full of activities that help spread an aura of joy, love and warmth not only across the state of Kerala but all throughout India.
Also Watch: Decoding the Onam Sadhya: a visual and delectable feast