Onam is an annual harvest and Hindu cultural festival primarily celebrated in the Indian state of Kerala. It is celebrated to mark the homecoming of the legendary Asura King Mahabali, who was a benevolent ruler. According to Hindu mythology, King Mahabali was banished to the netherworld by Lord Vishnu in his Vamana avatar after a cosmic event, but was granted the boon to visit his kingdom once every year. Onam celebrates this annual visit of King Mahabali, symbolizing prosperity, happiness, and harmony in Kerala. The festival also coincides with the harvest season, making it a time to give thanks for agricultural abundance and to welcome good fortune.
Thus, Onam is celebrated both for its mythological significance—the return of King Mahabali—and its agrarian importance as a harvest festival. It is a time of cultural festivities, traditional performances, family gatherings, grand feasts, and vibrant decorations.
