When it comes to onam, we all know that it's the most secular Indian festival ever; apart from Malayalees who are listening, how many of you know why Onam is celebrated and how it got its name? In this podcast I will explore some interesting facts about Onam.

What is Onam?

The word originated from the Sanskrit word Shravanam which refers to one of the 27 Nakshatras or constellations.

In South India, Thiru is used for anything which is associated with the Lord Vishnu and it is believed that Thiruvonam is the Nakshatra of Lord Vishnu.

A little history on why Onam is celebrated

Onam is celebrated to honour the home-coming of mythical-demon king Mahabali. Mahabali was known for his kind-hearted nature. He was loved by the people for his justice and fair play that his rule extended beyond earth to heaven and even to hell. He is outside the Hindu trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Mahadev.

Apparently the trinity gods became insecure about the popularity of the demon king and so they asked help from Lord Vishnu.

As Mahabali worshipped Lord Vishnu so, Vishnu told the gods that he would help them.

So the great Vishnu, transformed into a poor dwarf brahmin called Vamana and went to Mahabali’s kingdoms, asking for three wishes. He asked Mahabali for property right over a piece of land which measured ‘three paces’. Mahabali agreed to fulfil Vamana’s desire.

Vamana started to grow in size and his first feet covered the earth and second feet covered the sky. For the third feet no place was left, and then Mahabali requested Vamana to place third feet on his head, thus, burying himself into the underworld.

However, by seeing the devotion of Mahabali, lord Vishnu was impressed and told him that he could return to earth once a year to visit his people and his kingdom during Onam. And so, every year during this period the Onam festival is celebrated.

As part of the celebrations, people make the carpet of flowers which is known as ‘Pookolam’ and lay in front of their house to welcome the king Mahabali by a lavish feast called Sadhya.

People wear new clothes, cook delicacies and serve them on Banana leaves with a cup of payasam.

I hope you liked the story of Onam, if yes please do share your comments with the word “Mahabali” if you do, I would be very happy that you reached out to me via this episode.

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