Photo credits: Ramesh Kidangoor

Once upon a time an Asura King Mahabali ruled Kerala, he was dearly loved by this country and was known to be a just and wise ruler. His story is recaptured in the popular folk song:

When Mahabali ruled the land
Everyone was equal
Happily they lived
Danger befell none
There was no falsehood or fraud
And no untruth

The Onam harvest festival falls during the Malayalam month of Chingam, in this year September 16th 2013. The 10 days of Onam begin with Atham (Malayalam star) and end on the tenth day – Thiruvonam. Onam brings out  the best of Kerala culture and tradition with its multi-coloured floral decorations, snake boat races, new clothes, grand feasting and rejoicing to celebrates the golden age of Mahabali.

Pookalam

Snake boat race

Thiruvathira Dance

Pulikkali

Onasadhya