When Is Onam 2024? Know Thiruvonam Date, History, Timings, Significance
The celebrations of Onam start on Atham day and continue for 10 days till Thiruvonam day when Asura King Mahabali is believed to have visited every Malayali home and met his people.
Onam 2024: Onam is a Hindu festival celebrated by the people of Kerala in the month of Chingam, which is known as Simha month in other solar calendars and Avani month in Tamil Calendar. The festival commemorates the appearance of the Vamana avatar of Vishnu and the subsequent homecoming of King Mahabali. The celebrations of Onam start on Atham day and continue for 10 days till Thiruvonam day when Asura King Mahabali is believed to have visited every Malayali home and met his people.
ALSO READ: When Is Janmashtami 2024? Date, Time, Shubh Muhurat- All You Need To Know
Onam 2024: The 10 Days
The festival of Onam spans over 10 days with numerous festivities. It is observed by most Hindus in its pure traditional form. The first ten days of Onam are the most important which begins with Atham.
This year, the dates are as follows:
- Atham (6 September 2024)
- Chithira (7 September 2024)
- Chodhi (8 September 2024)
- Vishakam (9 September 2024)
- Anizham (10 September 2024)
- Thriketa (11 September 2024)
- Moolam (12 September 2024)
- Pooradam (13 September 2024)
- Uthradam/First Onam (14 September 2024)
- Thiruvonam Onam ( 15 September 2024)
Onam 2024: Thiruvonam Date And Timings
The annual Kerala festival of Onam will commence on September 5 with Atham and culminate with Thiruvonam on September 15. Celebrated in the month of Chingam, this festival holds great significance as it commemorates the appearance of the Vamana avatar of Lord Vishnu and the joyous return of the legendary King Mahabali.
According to Drik Panchang,
- Thiruvonam Nakshathram Begins - 08:32 PM on Sep 14, 2024
- Thiruvonam Nakshathram Ends - 06:49 PM on Sep 15, 2024
Onam 2024: History
In ancient mythology, King Mahabali of Kerala emerged victorious against the Gods and reigned over all three worlds. His rule was characterised by prosperity and grandeur, bringing joy to his subjects. The immense popularity of King Mahabali became a concern for the Gods, prompting them to seek the intervention of Lord Vishnu to contain his power. To accomplish this, Lord Vishnu descended on Earth in his Vamana avatar (a dwarf Brahmin) and approached the king, asking for some of Mahabali's land. He cleverly asked Mahabali to give him the amount of land he would cover in just three paces. Obliging the Brahmin, King Mahabali granted the request.
Lord Vishnu covered all of Mahabali's land in just three paces. With no land left for him on Earth, Mahabali had to then go to the netherworld. But Lord Vishnu granted him a special boon that he would be able to visit his beloved land once a year. Onam is celebrated to commemorate Mahabali's annual homecoming and is marked by vibrant festivities and cultural traditions.
The grand festival of Onam is a time of joy, unity, and reverence, as people come together to celebrate their rich cultural heritage and express their gratitude to the legendary King Mahabali. With the spirit of camaraderie and festivity, the people of Kerala welcome Mahabali with flower carpets at the entrance of their homes and celebrate the auspicious occasion of Onam.
Onam 2024: Traditions And Rituals
Onam's festivities are filled with diverse rituals, including Pookkalam (floral patterns), Onakalikal (festival games), Vallamkali (boat races), Pulikali (tiger and hunter tableau), and archery. Amidst these rituals, Onam Sadhya takes centre stage, embodying humility and equality as it's served on banana leaves and consumed with hands.
With 26 different curries, fried vegetables, and sweets made from over 60 ingredients, Onam Sadhya is a harmonious orchestra of flavours. The spread incorporates sweet, salty, sour, and spicy flavours, as well as regional ingredients such as coconut, jaggery, yams, and lentils. Pappadam, Sharkara Varatti, Olan, Avial, Sambhar, Pulissery, Palada Pradhaman, and other names are included.
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