Onam is usually held in August and September for 10 days, originated in Kerala as a celebration to remember the golden rule of King Mahabali, a mythical king who ruled over Kerala.
People lay a flower carpet, traditionally called ‘Pookalam’, in front of their house to welcome the King and mounds representing Mahabali and Vishnu are placed in the courtyards. Snake boat races, Onappottan, Kaazhchakkula, Puli Kali, Kaikottikkali and other traditional rituals are performed followed by a lavish feast on Thiruvonam day called ‘ Ona Sadya.
Onam also means new clothes for the whole family, sumptuous home-cooked delicacies on banana leaves rounded off by a cup of sweet Payasam.
The ten days of Onam, as per astrological stars in Malayalam, are called Atham, Chithira, Chodi, Vishakam, Anizham, Thriketa, Moolam, Pooradam, Uthradom and Thiruvonam.
