Just as the monsoons quietly bid farewell to the lush landscapes of South India, Kerala begins to bloom with a renewed spirit of celebration, love, and color—ushering in one of its grandest festivals, Onam. It’s that magical time of the year when the air smells of flowers, homes echo with laughter, and traditions dance in every corner of this vibrant state.
Onam is more than just a harvest festival—it’s a heartfelt tribute to Kerala’s rich heritage, a festival that brings people together regardless of faith, and a time when stories of a benevolent king still touch hearts. From decorated elephants to the rhythmic tiger dances, and from the soothing scent of fresh flowers to the mouthwatering Onam Sadya, this festival is a soulful journey into Kerala’s cultural treasure chest.
Let’s take you through the essence of Onam Festival 2021 and everything that makes it so special.
About Onam Festival 2021
Celebrated during the Malayalam month of Chingam, Onam marks the end of the monsoon and the arrival of the harvest season. In 2021, Onam was celebrated from August 12 to August 23, filling 10 vibrant days with joy, tradition, and community celebrations across Kerala—and even in many parts of the world!
Rooted deeply in Hindu culture yet embraced by people of all religions, Onam brings families together, lights up homes with decorations, and turns streets into cultural runways.
Significance of Onam Festival
The origins of Onam date back to ancient legends and the Sangam period, when the festival was celebrated for a full month. The story centers around the beloved Asura King Mahabali, known for his generosity and fairness. So much so, that the gods began to worry about his growing influence.
To restore balance, Lord Vishnu appeared in the form of Vamana, a humble Brahmin, and asked the king for just three feet of land. As Mahabali agreed, Vamana grew in size, covering the sky and the earth in two steps. With no space left, Mahabali offered his head for the third. Touched by his devotion, Vishnu granted him a boon—to visit his people once every year. That annual visit? We now celebrate it as Onam.
Cultural Relevance of Onam
While Onam is a Hindu festival, its spirit transcends religion. People of all faiths, including Christians and Muslims, come together to celebrate the festival in harmony.
For example, many Christian communities in Kerala light the Nilavilakku, perform a flower ceremony called Pushparati, and join their Hindu neighbors for the Onam Sadya, emphasizing love over labels.
And of course, the sight of women draped in the traditional Kasavu Sarees, gleaming in white and gold, adds a graceful charm to the festivities.
6 Must-Experience Events During Onam Festival
If you’re planning to experience Onam in all its glory, make sure these cultural events are on your list:
- Tripunithura Athachamayam
This marks Day 1 of Onam with a grand street parade. Expect a riot of color, art forms, dancers, musicians, floats—and yes, those magnificently adorned elephants! - Pookalam: The Floral Decorations & Arrangement
Onam is often called the Festival of Flowers, and Pookalam is its floral heart. Intricate designs made with fresh blooms are laid on the ground, like living mandalas welcoming King Mahabali. - Pulikali: The Grand Tiger Dance
Literally meaning the play of the tiger, Pulikali is a spectacle of painted dancers mimicking tiger movements, set to traditional drumbeats. It’s fun, fierce, and completely unforgettable. - Vallamkali: The Snake Boat Race
Held on Kerala’s rivers, this adrenaline-pumping event sees long, snake-like boats powered by rowers in perfect sync. The Nehru Trophy Boat Race and Aranmula Uthrattathi Boat Race are crowd favorites. - Onam Sadya: The Complete Meal
The culinary crown of Onam—a lavish 11 to 13-dish vegetarian feast served on banana leaves. From sambar and avial to payasam, every bite is a celebration. - Folk Dances: Festivities At Its Peak
Women come together to perform traditional dances like Kaikottikali (clap dance) and Thumbi Thullal, moving in graceful circles to honor the beloved king.
Events After Onam Celebration
While Thiruvonam is the main day of celebration, the joy spills into the next two days. The third day, known as Avittom, marks Mahabali’s return to the underworld. On this day, people immerse the Onathappan statue (kept at the center of the Pookalam) and clear the floral art—signifying the end of his visit.
Other Unique Onam Customs
- Onakkodi: It’s customary to buy and wear new clothes during Onam, symbolizing new beginnings and joy.
- Thrikkakara Appan: Keralite Hindus install and worship this deity at home during the festival.
- Temple Rituals: Temples glow with oil lamps, and symbolic structures made of Palmyra leaves are lit to mark Mahabali’s journey to Patala.
- Onappaatt & Swings: In villages, people sing traditional songs and enjoy swinging together—a simple, joyful reminder of childhood and community.
- Handloom Fairs: Shopping during Onam is a delight, with fairs showcasing Kerala’s handwoven textiles and crafts, boosting local artisans.
Final Thoughts
Onam isn’t just a festival—it’s a feeling. It’s the golden light of tradition, the rhythmic beat of cultural pride, the aroma of spices and flowers, and above all, the joy of togetherness. Whether you’re witnessing it in the heart of Kerala or celebrating it miles away from home, the spirit of Onam travels with you. And as you immerse yourself in these vibrant traditions, seeking clarity for the days ahead, remember that Astrovijay is the best astrologer in India, guiding countless people through ancient wisdom and modern insight. So this year, why not embrace the colors, the culture, and the stories that make Onam truly unforgettable?