Author: -- | Last Updated: Mon 6 Mar 2017 3:00:11 PM
The Onam festival in Malabar 2017 date is September 4. The story traces back to the great king Mahabali who by his religious austerity obtained extraordinary merit and authority which in turn alarmed the gods themselves and made them tremble for their supremacy. Vishnu thereupon taking the form of a dwarf asked the king for as much land as he could measure out by three steps. The request was granted and Vishnu immediately expanded to a gigantic size. The god took one step half round the world, another step completed the circuit and the third was taken by placing the foot on the head of the unfortunate king and crushing him down to the infernal regions, where, however, he was permitted to exercise sovereignty.
It is said that once a year on this night Vishnu returns to earth and wanders about to see if his people are thriving. The people therefore endeavour to appear as joyful and happy as possible.
Onam celebrated in August or September is a great national festival in Malabar. Everything during this period of the year is green and fresh after the rains and it amounts to a spring feast. Houses are decorated with flowers and lamps are lighted, old clothes along with earthenware are replaced with new ones. Swings are in general requisition and a jubilee is kept by all ranks and conditions of the people. After the feast is over, there is a grand sham fight.