Onam is one of Kerala’s biggest festivals, celebrated by over 30 million people every year. It is a harvest festival that brings together all communities in joy and unity. Spread over ten days, the celebrations include traditional dances, boat races, flower decorations, and the grand Onam Sadya. The festival honours the return of the legendary King Mahabali and reflects Kerala’s rich cultural values. With many tourists and Keralites taking part in public and private events, it is important to follow certain customs and respect local traditions.
Onam | Thiruvonam 2025: Date and Time (Muhurat)
- Atham: August 26, 2025
- Chithira: August 27, 2025
- Chithira: August 28, 2025
- Chothi: August 29, 2025
- Vishakham: August 30, 2025
- Anizham: August 31, 2025
- Thrikketta: September 1, 2025
- Moolam: September 2, 2025
- Pooradam: September 3, 2025
- Uthradam: September 4, 2025
- Thiruvonam on Friday, September 5, 2025
- Onam | Thiruvonam Nakshathram Begins – 11:44 PM on Sep 04, 2025
- Onam | Thiruvonam Nakshathram Ends – 11:38 PM on Sep 05, 2025
- Avittom: September 6, 2025
- Chathayam: September 7, 2025
Things to Do on Onam in Kerala
Here are some things to do during Onam.
- Create Pookalam: A Pookalam is a floral carpet. People make these in front of their homes. They use various flowers for this. A new layer of flowers is added each day. This tradition welcomes the king.
- Enjoy the Onam Sadhya: The Onam Sadhya is a grand feast. It is a vegetarian meal. It includes more than 25 dishes. The meal is served on a banana leaf. People eat it with their hands. This feast is central to the festival.
- Watch the Pulikali: Pulikali means ‘Tiger Dance’. Men paint their bodies like tigers. They dance to the rhythm of drums. This dance is a vibrant part of Onam. You can see it in Thrissur.
- Experience the Vallamkali: Vallamkali is a snake boat race. Many teams participate in these races. The boats are very long. Hundreds of rowers power them. The Nehru Trophy Boat Race is famous. It happens on Punnamada Lake.
- Witness Kathakali Dance: Kathakali is a traditional dance form. It tells stories from epics. The dancers wear elaborate costumes. They use detailed makeup. Many cultural centers host Kathakali performances during Onam.
- Shop for Onam: Onam is a time for new things. People buy new clothes and gifts. The markets are full of people. Many shops offer special discounts. This is a good time for shopping in Kerala.
- Visit a Keralan Home: The best way to experience Onam is with a local family. You can see their rituals. You can also eat the Sadhya with them. This gives you a true feel of the festival.
Also Read: Onam | Thiruvonam: Date, Muhurat, and Ritual
Things to Avoid on Onam in Kerala
Here are some things to avoid during Onam in Kerala.
- Do not wear immodest clothing. Onam is a traditional festival. It is respectful to wear traditional or modest clothing.
- Do not waste food at the Onam Sadhya. The feast is a sign of abundance. It is considered disrespectful to leave a lot of food on your plate.
- Do not use your left hand to eat. The Onam Sadhya is eaten with your right hand. This is a common custom in many parts of India.
- Do not disrespect local customs. People follow various rituals and traditions. Be observant and respectful of these practices.
- Do not litter. Keep public places clean. This applies especially to venues of major events like the boat races or Pulikali.
- Do not assume all events are for tourists. Many rituals are personal or community-based. Be mindful of personal space and local etiquette.
- Do not visit without checking dates. Onam is a ten-day festival. The main celebrations happen on specific days. Plan your visit accordingly.
Why is Onam celebrated only in Kerala?
Onam is a celebration rooted in the mythology of Kerala. It commemorates the return of King Mahabali, a mythical ruler who governed the land. The legend says he visits his people every year. Therefore, the festival is a unique expression of Kerala’s cultural heritage.
Do Muslims celebrate Onam?
Yes, many Muslims in Kerala celebrate Onam. The festival is a cultural event, not just a religious one. People of all faiths participate in the festivities. They make Pookalams, enjoy the Onam Sadhya, and visit friends and family. This reflects the communal harmony in Kerala.
How is Onam Celebrated?
Onam is celebrated over ten days in Kerala. People decorate their homes with floral carpets called Pookalams. They prepare a grand vegetarian feast, the Onam Sadhya. Traditional dances like Pulikali and boat races called Vallamkali are also part of the celebrations. People also exchange gifts and wear new clothes.
