Onam is one of the most vibrant and cherished festivals in India, celebrated with great enthusiasm in the state of Kerala. Known as the “festival of harvest,” Onam marks the beginning of the Malayalam calendar and is observed to honor the legendary King Mahabali, whose reign is said to have been a time of peace, prosperity, and happiness. For people in Kerala, Onam is not just a celebration of the harvest season but also a tribute to their rich cultural heritage.
At Funtastiic, we believe in celebrating every festival with fun, laughter, and creativity. Onam, with its traditions and festivities, is a wonderful opportunity for children to learn about Indian culture in a playful and interactive way.
The Legend of King Mahabali
The story of Onam revolves around the benevolent King Mahabali, who is believed to have ruled Kerala long ago. According to mythology, his reign was marked by equality and justice, and people lived in happiness and peace. However, the gods, fearing that King Mahabali’s popularity was growing too strong, sought the help of Lord Vishnu. In the form of Vamana, a dwarf Brahmin, Lord Vishnu tricked Mahabali into giving up his kingdom but granted him the wish to visit his people once a year. Onam is the time when Keralites welcome their beloved king back home with open arms and grand celebrations.
How Onam is Celebrated
Onam is celebrated over ten days, with the biggest festivities taking place on Thiruvonam, the final day. The celebrations include a wide range of activities and customs that reflect Kerala’s rich culture.
- Pookalam: One of the most beautiful traditions of Onam is creating elaborate floral designs called ‘Pookalam.’ Children and families come together to arrange fresh flowers in colorful patterns outside their homes to welcome King Mahabali.
- Onam Sadhya: A grand feast, known as Onam Sadhya, is an integral part of the celebration. This traditional meal, served on banana leaves, includes a variety of vegetarian dishes, sweets, and pickles. The Sadhya is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a symbol of the abundant harvest.
- Vallamkali (Boat Races): The thrilling boat races, or Vallamkali, are one of the most popular events during Onam. Large, snake-shaped boats race against each other on the rivers, with hundreds of rowers paddling in unison, creating an exciting atmosphere.
- Cultural Performances: Onam is also known for its colorful dance performances and traditional games. Kathakali, a classical dance form, and Pulikali, where performers dress as tigers and dance to the beat of drums, are crowd favorites during the celebrations.
Onam at Funtastiic
At Funtastiic, we believe in fostering cultural awareness through play and fun activities. This Onam, we invite families to join us in celebrating the festival in a playful way. Whether it’s making mini Pookalams, engaging in friendly games, or sharing festive treats, there’s plenty for kids and families to enjoy. By incorporating elements of Onam into playtime, children can experience the joy and meaning behind the festival while creating lasting memories.
Closing Thoughts
Onam is a celebration of togetherness, abundance, and joy, making it a perfect time for families to bond and share in the festivities. At Funtastiic, we embrace the spirit of Onam by creating fun, family-friendly experiences that bring people closer together. Let’s make this Onam a celebration filled with laughter, learning, and love!
Happy Onam from all of us at Funtastiic!