Onam is a very beautiful and big festival which is specially celebrated in Kerala state. It is also called harvest festival of Kerala. During Onam Kerala is completely colorful pookkalam (floral rangoli) in front of the house, grand Onam Sadhya (traditional food feast) and the famous snake boat race attract everyone. Let’s see in detail in this article Onam festivals of Kerala, its history, traditions, food and some inspiring Onam festival quotes.
Onam Festival is Celebrated in Which State?
The first question people ask is – Onam festival is celebrated in which state? the answer is Kerala. People of Kerala, whether in India or any other part of the world, celebrate Onam with great love. That is why today Onam is celebrated outside India in countries like UAE, USA, UK, Australia.
Onam Festival History – Story of King Mahabali
Onam festival history is linked to a very interesting and religious story. It is said that in ancient times King Mahabali was the ruler of Kerala. He was a very just, kind-hearted and loving king to his subjects. Under his rule everyone was happy, no one was poor, no one was sad.
Gods and Goddesses became jealous after seeing his popularity. Then Lord Vishnu took his Vamana avatar (the form of a dwarf Brahmin). Vamana asked King Mahabali for three steps of land. When the King agreed, Vamana grew up and measured heaven and earth in two steps. For the third step Mahabali offered his head. then Vishnu sent him to Patal lok, but gave him a boon that he would be able to come every year to meet his subjects. That day is celebrated as Onam – when the Malayali people welcome their King Mahabali.
Onam Festival in Hindi & Malayalam
Many people search online – Onam festival in Hindi and Onam festival in Malayalam.
👉 in Hindi:
“Onam ek pramukh tyohar hai jo Kerala rajya mein bade utsah ke saath manaya jata hai. Yeh raja Mahabali ki yaad mein manaya jata hai jo apne praja se behtareen prem karte the.”
👉 in Malayalam:
“ഓണം കേരളത്തിലെ ഏറ്റവും വലിയ ഉത്സവമാണ്. ഇത് മഹാബലി രാജാവിന്റെ വരവിനെ ആഘോഷിക്കുന്നതാണ്.”
This makes us understand that Onam is not just a festival but a cultural identity of Kerala.
How is Onam Celebrated?
Onam festivals of Kerala last for almost 10 days and each day has its own special significance.
- Pookkalam – Rangoli made of flowers is decorated at the entrance of the house.
- Vallam Kali (Snake Boat Race) – This boat race held in the backwaters of Kerala is world famous.
- Pulikali – People dance after painting their bodies in tiger pattern.
- Onam Sadhya – Grand vegetarian feast of 25+ dishes served on banana leaves.
- Onakalikal – Traditional games like Tug of war, wrestling and archery.
- Dance & Music – Enjoy Kathakali, Kaikottikali and folk dances.
All these together make Onam a cultural extravaganza.
Onam Festival Food – Famous Onam Sadhya
It is impossible to mention Onam and not mention Onam festival food. Onam Sadhya is a traditional vegetarian feast served on banana leaves. It has 20-25 dishes, some of the popular ones being:
- Avial – Mixed vegetable curry with coconut.
- Sambar – Dal and tamarind based curry.
- Thoran – Coconut wali stir-fried sabzi.
- Kotu Curry – Yam and chana wali spicy curry.
- Pachadi & Kichadi – Curd based side dishes.
- Payasam – Sweet dish made of rice, milk and jaggery.
The real fun of Onam comes when the whole family sits together and enjoys together.
Onam Festival Quotes
It has become a tradition to share wishes and Onam festival quotes on social media during Onam. Here are some best quotes that you can send to your friends and family:
Cultural Importance of Onam Festival
Onam is more than just a festival – it reflects Kerala’s cultural identity. The celebrations include:
- Unity in Diversity – Hindu, Muslim and Christian – all celebrate Onam.
- Harvest Festival – This is a festival linked to agriculture and prosperity.
- Tourism Boost – Thousands of tourists visit Kerala during Onam.
Onam in Modern Times
Nowadays, Onam is not just limited to homes. Offices, schools, community halls, shopping malls – Onam is celebrated everywhere. Online stores and malls also launch special Onam festival offers.
Conclusion
Onam festivals of Kerala are a cultural, historical and spiritual blend which has become a celebration not only of the people of Kerala but of the whole world. Whether it is about Onam festival history, Onam festival food or inspiring Onam festival quotes, every aspect gives the message of happiness and positivity.
May this Onam bring happiness and blessings to all!
I am a MSc Geology student with expertise in GIS software and field research. Passionate about spirituality and technology, I run Bhakti Bhava, a website dedicated to Hindu gods, quotes and devotional images. As a blogger, I create content that blends devotion with digital innovation.