Onam 2025: Everything you need to know about Kerala’s biggest festival

Onam 2025: Everything you need to know about Kerala’s biggest festival

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, September 4, 2025: Onam is one of the most significant festivals for Hindus, especially cherished in South India. Celebrated with great enthusiasm by the Malayali and Keralite communities, this harvest festival symbolizes joy, prosperity, and togetherness.

In 2025, Onam will be celebrated on September 5, aligning with the Shravana Nakshatra on the Dwadashi Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada. The Thiruvonam Nakshathram is set to begin on September 4 at 11:44 PM and will end on September 5 at 11:38 PM.

Historical Background of Onam 

In Hindu mythology, King Mahabali is remembered as a noble and generous ruler of Kerala, whose reign was marked by prosperity and happiness for his people. His growing influence and power, however, worried the Gods, as he had defeated them in battle. Seeking to curb his strength, the Gods turned to Lord Vishnu for help. 

Vishnu descended in the form of a dwarf Brahmin, Vamana, and humbly requested three paces of land from Mahabali. True to his nature, Mahabali agreed. With two strides, Vamana spanned the entire universe, leaving no space for the third. In an act of devotion, Mahabali offered his own head for the final step. Pleased by his humility and sacrifice, Vishnu granted Mahabali a boon - the right to return to Kerala once every year to visit his people.

Importance of Onam 

Onam holds immense importance for Hindus, particularly in southern India. The festival is celebrated with enthusiasm and grandeur by Malayali and Keralite communities, who offer prayers to Lord Vamana and King Mahabali, seeking blessings for their families’ health, happiness, and longevity. It also serves as a time of gratitude for a bountiful harvest.

Homes are decorated with vibrant floral rangolis (Pookkalam) and adorned with fresh blossoms, creating a festive atmosphere. Women prepare a variety of traditional dishes and sweets, which are offered in devotion to King Mahabali and Lord Vamana, adding both cultural richness and spiritual meaning to the celebration. 

Cultural Aspects of Onam Celebrations 

Onam is more than a religious celebration; it is a festival deeply rooted in South India’s cultural traditions. It serves as a time for families and friends to reunite, with many Keralites traveling back home to celebrate with their loved ones. The festive season is marked by vibrant cultural activities, including boat races, music and dance performances, and singing competitions that showcase Kerala’s rich heritage. 

Charity also plays a vital role in Onam. People share sweets and traditional homemade meals with the less fortunate, a gesture believed to bring peace and prosperity into their lives.

The festival commemorates the annual homecoming of King Mahabali, honoring his just and benevolent rule while symbolizing the prosperity and harmony of his era.