Onam 2025: Date, History, and How It’s Celebrated Around the World

Later this month, Onam celebrations will be celebrated for ten days across Kerala, a state in South India, and among Malayali communities worldwide.

In the Malayalam calendar month of Chingam, which is equivalent to August or September in the Gregorian calendar, the significant Keralite harvest celebration takes place. It will be commemorated this year from August 26 to September 5.

Despite being a Hindu festival, it has become so significant to Keralan culture that people of all faiths now observe it to some extent.

The history of Onam

The event celebrates the return of King Mahabali from the underworld. The mythological monarch was regarded as a wonderful leader; according to tradition, there was no caste-based discrimination, corruption, or criminal activity throughout his reign.

Onam is said to have originated when Lord Vishnu or Vamana banished the great king to the underworld, but let him to visit his people once a year.

It was declared a holiday by the Kerala government in the 1960s. Because of its temple, the Kochi neighborhood known as Thrikkakkara holds particular meaning during the event.

Every year, Kerala observes public holidays in honor of the festival, during which time families spend time together and many people rise early to pray.

Vishu, which took place in April this year and signifies the Malayali New Year, should not be confused with the harvest festival of Onam.

What is Onam sadhya?

The Onam sadhya, or feast, is regarded by many as one of the festival’s highlights. Vegetarian food is always served on banana leaves and is often served in big quantities in restaurants, families, and the community.

The most important feast is offered on Thiru Onam, the festival’s important date, which occurs on September 5. Between nine and thirty dishes, including dal, curries, poppadoms, pickles, and banana chips, can be served.

This kind of feast is highly prized during this season because it is usually only served at weddings or Onam.

Another popular dish in Malayali houses is pazhamkootan, a stew made with the leftovers of the Onam sadhya.

The events and performances

The Onam celebrations include a wide range of events and performances. The snake boat race is one important event. These boats, which have been used for warfare in the area for around 500 years, resemble dragon boats.

The Kummati Kali dance through the streets, especially in the Thrissur district, is another significant occasion. The dancers cover their bodies with grass and don vibrant masks. During the festival, it is also usual to see Theyyam performers, who are said to be direct conduits to the gods, performing at temples.

On the fourth day of Onam, people are entertained by tigers and hunters in vibrant costumes who mimic the hunt and dance to drums. The tiger dance is thought to have been adopted as an Onam ritual around 200 years ago by the Maharaja of Cochin, who valued the event’s macho vibe.

The clothing and the flowers

People decorate their houses and communities with flowers known as pookkalam, much like they do at Diwali. They are positioned to welcome King Mahabali because they are thought to be auspicious.

For Onam, women dress in a cream-colored, gold-bordered kasavu two-piece ensemble, also known as a sari. They also have flowers in their hair. In the meantime, men round their waists with the tradition mundu.

Other traditions

During this season, there are many vibrant variety of customs and dances. Like during Diwali, lights are lit during the holidays, and many individuals purchase new clothing for the occasion.

Pookkalam flower arrangements are frequently placed in nearby rivers or bodies of water following Onam.