Onam is an annual festival in Kerala, India, which marks the end of monsoon and the arrival of the harvest season.
It falls on the 22nd Nakshatra Thiruvonam in the Malayalam calendar’s month of Chingam.
One of the biggest and most important festivals of Kerala, Onam is celebrated with much joy and enthusiasm all over the state by people of all communities.
Onam brings out the rich tradition and diverse culture of Kerala and it is celebrated with great pomp and show.
The history of the festival largely revolves around King Mahabali whose spirit is said to visit Kerala during this time.
The 10-day festival held in August and September originated to celebrate the golden rule of legendary King Mahabali who was loved by all his subjects.
The people of the land were very prosperous under his rule but his popularity was not appreciated by the other Gods who grew jealous of him. So, they went to Lord Vishnu who was worshipped by the king, to devise a plan to get rid of him.
In response to their plea, Lord Vishnu came down to earth in the form of a poor Brahmin, named Vamana.
One day, Vamana went to the king when he was granting wishes to his subjects and asked him for the land covering three of his steps.
The king agreed and Vamana increased his size.
With one step he covered the whole of the sky and with the other the entire earth, asking for a third place to step his foot.
Realising that Vamana was no ordinary Brahmin, the king offered his head as the third step. As Lord Vishnu stepped on him, Mahabali was pushed to the netherworld.
Impressed by his actions, Lord Vishnu granted him one wish.
Mahabali, who was deeply attached to his subjects, chose to visit his land and people once every year during the festival of Onam.
Delmon International Hotel celebrates the festival on September 13 with a lavish Onam sadhya (feast) priced at BD5 per person.
For reservations, call 17224000 extension 845 or 36401071.