The harvest festival Oman is celebrated as legendary King Mahabali’s homecoming. The festival is largely celebrated in Kerala and is not a one-day gala, it is celebrated for 10 days but the main festival is celebrated on the last three days i.e. from August 21 to August 23. The biggest celebrated day is called Thiru-Onam or Thiruvonam.
The days are celebrated in the Chigham month of Malayalam calendar and as per the Georgian calendar, the festival falls in the month of August or September.
The 10 days of the festival are named after the astrological stars of the Malayalam calendar. Each of these days has its own designated name, significance, and activities. The days are celebrated as Atham, Chithira, Chodi, Vishakam, Anizham, Thriketa, Moolam, Pooradam, Uthradom, Thiruvonam. This is followed by two more days – Avittam and Chathayam – for minor festivities.
On Onam people also takes part in boat races called Vallam Kali.
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Oman 2021: Tale of King Mahabali
The king was loved by his populace and he was a powerful and intelligent king. Because of his intelligence and power, he defeated gods and captured the three worlds (Sky, Netherland and Earth). This forced gods to go to Lord Vishnu and there they urged him to fight and defeat the demon king.
Lord Vishnu took the avatar of Vamana (Bhramin) and visited the place of King. There he asked the king for a wish and the king agreed to grant his wish. Vamana asked for property rights over a piece of land that measures "three paces". Mahabali agreed to this wish. Vamana then grew his size and covered everything the king owned in just two steps and for the third step, the king bow downed and asked Lord Vishnu to step on it.
Lord Vishnu was impressed by this gesture and allowed King to visit earth once a year. This homecoming of Lord Vishnu is celebrated as Onam.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Ram Nath Kovind and Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu extended their wishes and greetings.
Prime Minister Modi prayed for people’s wellbeing and good health and wrote, “Best wishes on the special occasion of Onam, a festival associated with positivity, vibrancy, brotherhood and harmony. I pray for everyone's good health and wellbeing.”
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President Kovind expressed his gratitude towards Mother Nature and extended his wishes while writing, “Onam greetings to all our fellow citizens! This festival is a celebration of the new harvest. It highlights the tireless work of farmers. It is an occasion to express gratitude to mother nature. I wish progress and prosperity for all fellow citizens.”
Vice President wrote, “My warm greetings on the auspicious occasion of Onam today. It marks the beginning of harvest season in various parts of our country. Onam also honors the memory of great King Mahabali of Kerala, who is celebrated for his nobility & generosity.”
“May the vibrant festival bring in peace, prosperity & happiness for all,” he added.