Why We Celebrate Onam Festival | Story, Puja & Traditions
Onam is one of the biggest and most joyous festivals of the Indian state of Kerala. It is a festival of joy, food, flowers and family.
People eagerly wait for Onam every year. But do you know why we celebrate Onam? Let's understand in simple words.
The Story Behind Onam
Long ago, there was a kind and noble king named Mahabali. He loved his subjects very much and took care of them like his own children.Under his rule, everyone was happy, prosperous and safe.
But the gods of heaven became jealous. They felt that King Mahabali was becoming too powerful. So, Lord Vishnu, one of the 10 Avatars of Vishnu , took the form of a dwarf Brahmin boy named Vamana.
Vamana asked the king for only three steps of land. Mahabali agreed as he had never refused anyone. Suddenly, Vamana grew very tall. With his first step, he covered the sky and with the second step, he covered the earth. Now there was no space left for the third step.
So, Mahabali bowed his head and said, “Put your last step on me.” Vamana did the same and sent him to Patala Loka.
But Mahabali was so kind that Lord Vishnu blessed him that he could meet his subjects once a year. This homecoming of King Mahabali is celebrated as Onam.
How we celebrate Onam
Onam is a festival full of colours and happiness. People celebrate it in many ways:
- Pookalam - Floral decorations on the ground
- Onam Sadhya - A large meal filled with many delicious dishes on a banana leaf
- Dance and Song - People perform Thiruvathira dance and sing folk songs
- Vallam Kali - Kerala's famous snake boat race
- Cultural Programs - Traditional Games and Performances
Onam Puja Muhurat 2025
Many families also perform Onam puja to welcome King Mahabali. Doing puja in the right muhurat (auspicious time) makes it even more special.
| Event | Date & Time |
|---|---|
| Onam (Thiruvonam) Date | Friday, 5 September 2025 |
| Best Puja Time | 6:00 AM – 8:30 AM |
| Thiruvonam Nakshatra Begins | 4 Sept 2025, 11:44 PM |
| Thiruvonam Nakshatra Ends | 5 Sept 2025, 11:39 PM |
Tip: Timings may vary depending on your city. Always check your local Panchang for exact muhurat.
Why Onam is special
Onam is special because it reminds us of the kind King Mahabali and his love for his people. The festival teaches the values of love, sharing, and unity.
It is a time when families and friends come together, celebrate with joy, and spread happiness everywhere.
Conclusion
Onam is not just a festival, it is a spirit of joy, love and togetherness.
Every flower of Pookalam, every dish of Sadhya and every smile during Onam tells us one thing goodness lives forever.
