Onam is a ten days Hindu festival celebrated in Kerala. It falls in Malayalam calendar month of Chingam. As per Hindu mythology, Onam is celebrated to commemorate King Mahabali, who visits Kerala at the time of Onam. The Asura King, Mahabali defeated the Devas and took the power over the three worlds. Devas approached Mahavishnu for help and to regain the rule. Devas asked Lord to battle against Mahabali. Mahavishnu refused to battle against King because he was a good ruler and his devotee. But on continuous request from the Devas side and to help them Mahavishnu took the avatar of a dwarf brahmin boy called Vamana. 

On one of the yajnas conducted by Mahabali, Vamana approached the King. He offered anything to the boy against the warning of his Master Guru Shukracharya, the boy said he needs land that measures in his three paces. Mahabali agreed. Vamana grew and measured everything Mahabali ruled in just two paces. For the third pace, there was nothing left with the king so, he offered himself. Vishnu accepted as evidence of Mahabali’s devotion. Mahavishnu granted him a boon, by which Mahabali could visit again, once in every year, the land and people he ruled. This revisit marks the festival of Onam. The last day of Mahabali’s stay is remembered with Vegetarian Onasadhya feast.

The red cone-shaped Thrikkakarappan represents Vamana. From day one Mahabali is invited to every home by Pookalam. The tenth day Vamana is invited by special pooja and feast. Onam festival teaches valuable lessons about life. With extra power, one should not lead to ego boost and greed. Faith on Lord and prayers always work. Always pay attention to our Master. Keep your Word. Humanity never goes out of style. Onam also inspires to inculcate the values of Truthfulness, Honesty, Integrity, and Peace.

 Onam celebrations include Thiruvathira Kali (Ladies Dance), Vallam Kali (Boat Race), Puli Kali (Tiger Dance), Pookkalam (Flower Arrangements), Kummatii Kali (Mask Dance), Onavillu (Music), Attachamayam (Folk Dance and Songs). Onam is the official state festival of Kerala with four public holidays. Onam also celebrated by Malayali diaspora around the world.