Onam festival in Kerala is an annual harvest and major Hindu cultural festival celebrated mostly by the people of Kerala. According to Hindu mythology, this festival marks the annual visit of King Mahabali and symbolizes prosperity, unity and cultural pride. He was one of the great devotees of the Hindu God Vishnu. Onam is also a harvest festival that celebrates the rich agricultural produce of Kerala. It marks the end of the monsoon season and the beginning of the harvest. To learn more about Onam, go through this blog!
Onam 2025 Date
Onam is a celebration of Kerala's tradition and culture. The festivities of Onam are held for ten days. In the Malayalam calendar, Onam is marked on the day of Thiruvonam nakshatra (Shravana). However, as per the English month calendar, Onam usually falls between late August and early September.
In 2025, the Onam festival date falls between August 28 and September 5. The key day of Onam in Kerala is known as Thiruvonam and will be celebrated on September 5, 2025. Locals and visitors enjoy festivities throughout the ten-day period.
Onam Nakshatra Timings:
- Thiruvonam Nakshathra Begins: 11:43 PM on Sep 04, 2025
- Thiruvonam Nakshathra Ends: 11:38 PM on Sep 05, 2025
History of Onam Festival in Kerala
The Onam festival has ancient roots and relates to Hindu mythology and agricultural practices. Here, we will talk about both one-by-one:
1. Mythological and Spiritual History
Mahabali (or Bali) was an Asura (demon) king of Kerala. He was the grandson of Prahalad and son of Virochana. The King Bali took over the three worlds by defeating the Hindu Gods. Despite being an Asura, he was a true devotee of Lord Vishnu and was known for his rule, generosity and the prosperity he brought to Kerala. His charitable act and power aroused jealousy among the gods as Mahabali was becoming more powerful and gaining more territory than Gods. These things were suppressing natural order in the universe. Some also claimed that after gaining all the powers and defeating Devraj Indra, Mahabali started becoming arrogant and full of pride. Hence, Gods went to Lord Vishnu to seek help from him against Mahabali.
To eliminate Mahabali's influence and test his devotion, Lord Vishnu took the form of a dwarf Brahmin, Vamana. His Vamana Avatar is also known as the fifth incarnation of Vishnu in Hinduism. Vishnu appeared in front of him when King Bali was performing ritual yagna. He asked the king for a piece of land that would cover the size of his three steps. Mahabali smiled on this unique type of wish and readily agreed to grant the three paces of land without thinking anything. His people insisted him to not grant this wish of the Brahmin. However, Mahabali was known for his charity work, so he didn’t listen to them. Also, he wondered how much this dwarf would ask for.
To everyone’s surprise, Vamana grew to an enormous size, covering the earth and heavens in two steps. As no place was left for his third step, Mahabali offered his own head with devotion and generosity. After watching this huge sacrifice of the king, Vamana was pleased and granted him a boon to visit his land (Kerala) every year. His visit to Kerala marks the festival of Onam. Also, Vamana made King Bali, the king of Patala Loka (or hell), thus restoring the natural order of devas and asuras.
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2. Agricultural Significance
Onam in Kerala is also a harvesting festival that coincides with the end of the monsoon season and harvest. It's a time of gratitude for the bountiful harvest and a celebration of the community's prosperity. Various farming rituals and traditions are associated with Onam, particularly in rural areas, reflecting the importance of agriculture in the region. Onam is one of the major festivals in India that brings the people of Kerala together in joy and unity.
How is Onam Celebrated? Most Popular Rituals of Onam
Onam is a 10-day festival that starts with Atham. Each day has its own significance and there are some famous rituals which devotees follow every day. Here we will talk about them one-by-one:
- Atham: The first day of Onam is called Atham. Women usually begin to make the Pookalam mats (also spelled pukalam). Basically, these mats are made of flower rangoli or kalam and are used to welcome the spirit of King Mahabali. Everyday fresh flowers are added to the Pookalam during Onam that enhances its beauty.
- Chithira: The second day of Onam is called Chithira. On this day, people add more layers to their Pookkalam and begin cleaning and decorating their homes.
- Chodhi: It is the third day of Onam. On this day, people buy new clothes, especially traditional clothes like Onakkodi along with jewelry and gifts for every family member.
- Visakam: The fourth day of Onam is known as Visakam. Various competitions and artistic performances take place, including Onathallu throughout Kerala. The day marks the beginning of preparations for the grand feast of Onam, called the Onasadya.
- Anizham: Day five is called Anizham and features the Vallamkali boat races. These boat races are also known as snake boat races and involve teams of rowers competing in long, decorated boats with various flowers.
- Thriketta: It is the sixth day of Onam. It is a day for family gatherings, visiting ancestral homes, and adding more flowers to the Pookkalam. Also, many businesses remain closed to prepare for the coming days of the Onam festival.
- Moolam: Day seven is known as Moolam. From this day on Onam, traditional dance performances begin. Many artists perform Puli Kali (or Tiger Dances) and Kaikottikali, attracting visitors from around the country. Also, the smaller versions of the Onam Sadya feast are prepared and enjoyed both at home and in temples.
- Pooradam: It is the eighth day of Onam. On this day, devotees create clay idols called "Ma" or "Poorada Uttigal" and King Mahabali and Vishnu’s Vamana avatar shaped like modest pyramids. These murtis are then decorated with flowers and placed in the center of the Pookalam.
- Uthradam: The ninth day of Onam is called Uthradam. It is a day of preparation for the grand finale, Thiruvonam. Also, people of the village exchange gift with the village head, known as Karanavar. These gifts are basically local farm produce or artisanal crafts. In return, Karanavar gives gifts and sweets to the villagers.
- Thiruvonam: It is the final or 10th day of Onam. On this day, the biggest celebrations of Onam take place. It is believed that King Mahabali visited his loyal members of the village. People wake up at 4 AM and clean their houses. They invite King Bali by offering prayers, lighting lamps, and preparing aata (made of rice flour and molasses). The day also features a large feast called Onam Sadya. This meal typically consists of 11 to 13 vegetarian dishes served on banana leaves. During the night, women perform the clap dance, known as Kaikottikali.
Also, many Hindus celebrate the 11th day of Onam festival in Kerala that marks the departure of King Bali. His idols are sunk in the rivers and Pookalams are removed on this day.
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Where is Onam Celebrated in Kerala?
Onam is primarily celebrated in Kerala. India. Here, are a few top places that mark this festival in some unique ways:
1. Thrippunithura (or Tripunithura)
It is a rich historical region in Kochi and is one of the best places to visit in South India. Onam in Tripunithura is primarily celebrated with the Athachamayam procession. It is a grand parade that marks the beginning of the ten-day festival. Other cultural performances are also organized like folk dances, including Kathakali, Theyyam, Pulikali (the tiger dance) and Kolkali. Percussion ensembles like Pandimelam and Panchavadyam are also organized and provide a vibrant backdrop. Experiencing the Onam celebrations in Tripunithura is one of the best things to do in India.
2. Alleppey (Alappuzha)
It is referred as the ‘Venice of the East’ and is one of the best places to visit in India due to its crystal-clear waters, houseboat cruises and tranquil beaches. When it comes to celebrating Onam, it marks this festival in some amazing ways. Onam celebrations in Alappuzha are mainly focused on the backwaters, The major highlight of the Onam festival in Alappuzha is the famous Vallamkali, a snake boat race. Also, The Nehru Trophy Boat Race, which is held on Punnamda Lake near Alappuzha, is a key event. The festival also features traditional dances, Onam Sadhya (feast) and the creation of intricate Pookalams (floral carpets).
3. Thrissur
Formerly known as Trichur, it is a beautiful city in Kerala. Thrissur is one of the best places to visit in Kerala, especially during the Onam festival. This city is often considered the heart of Onam celebrations in Kerala. Pulikali is a center of attraction throughout the festival. Basically, it is a unique street art form in which men get dressed up as tigers and dance on the rhythm of music. Thrissur also hosts floral rangoli (Pookkalam) competitions and various traditional dance performances.
4. Trivandrum
Also called Thiruvananthapuram, it is the capital city of Kerala where you can witness the vibrant celebrations of Onam festival. The city hosts a week-long series of festivities, including illuminations and decorations, cultural programs, processions and floats, Onam feast, Pookkalam competitions, and other cultural events. Also, visitors can also explore the Padmanabhaswamy Temple for special rituals and Onam fairs showcasing Kerala's art, crafts, and cuisine.
5. Kochi
Kochi was formerly known as Cochin. This coastal city in Kerala blends traditional and modern Onam celebrations which you must attend. It is mostly known for its grand Onam Sadhya, which includes over 30 dishes to showcase diverse flavors of Kerala cuisine. Also, you can witness traditional dance performances, such as Kathakali and Mohiniyattam. The major attraction of the Onam festival in Kochi is Fort Kochi, offering a unique and picturesque setting during the night throughout the festival.
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6. Aranmula
It is a temple town in Kerala, known for ancient temples, traditional boat races, and vibrant festivals, including the Onam festival. Major Onam celebrations take place around the Parthasarathy Temple and the Pampa River. Festivities include the Thiruvonathoni, a ritual where a boat carrying Onam feast delicacies arrives at the temple. Also, the Aranmula Uthrattathi Vallamkali, a unique snake boat race, is organized in Aranmula.
While Onam is primarily celebrated in Kerala, there are a few other places in India that celebrate this sacred festival. These include states like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu (particularly the Nilgiris, Coimbatore, and Kanyakumari districts), and Maharashtra, especially Mumbai. Also, the Onam festival is celebrated by Malayali people living in other regions, including Uttar Pradesh (Balia and Baway).
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This is all about the auspicious Onam festival in Kerala with its significance and rituals. Today, Onam is not limited to Kerala. In fact, it's being observed throughout the country with great joy and pride. If you want to experience the true essence of this Keralite festival, you must visit Kerala with your loved ones. During Onam, the whole community comes together to welcome the spirit of King Mahabali. Book our Kerala tour packages and celebrate Onam among Malayali people with enthusiasm. Trust me, these ten days of Onam will be unforgettable and ones that you can cherish forever.
Onam Festival in Kerala – FAQ’s
Onam is the biggest and most important festival in Kerala. It is a ten-day harvest celebration that blends mythology, tradition, and cultural activities.
Onam is also known as Thiru-Onam or Thiruvonam. Here the word "Thiru" signifies something sacred or related to Lord Vishnu.
Onam is celebrated in Kerala to commemorate King Mahabali's annual visit to his kingdom. Also, Onam marks the end of the monsoon and the harvest season, representing prosperity and abundance.
This festival in Kerala holds deep religious significance and is celebrated with cultural events, traditional dances like Thiruvathirakali and Pulikali, and traditional rituals. Also, a grand vegetarian feast called Onam Sadhya is organized throughout the Onam festival.
Onam is Kerala's major harvest festival. It is culturally significant for its celebration of King Mahabali's legendary homecoming. It reminds us of the unity of the Malayali community and its rich agrarian traditions.
The story of Onam is centered around King Mahabali. It emphasizes the importance of modesty, generosity, and enduring power of love and unity. The Onam festival in Kerala also highlights the consequences of excessive pride and the acceptance of fate.
As per the Hindu mythology, King Mahabali was not killed but rather banished to the Patala Lok by Lord Vishnu in his Vamana avatar.
The most pleasant time to visit Kerala is between September and March. This is the time when you can experience pleasant weather, comfortable temperatures, and lower humidity. Also, it is an ideal time to explore the backwaters, beaches, hill stations, and spice plantations.
