In which state is the Onam festival primarily celebrated? 

The correct answer is Kerala.

Key Points

• Onam is the most celebrated and significant festival of Kerala, India.
• It is a harvest festival that marks the annual homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali.
• The festival is celebrated in the month of Chingam (August-September) in the Malayalam calendar.
• Onam is a 10-day-long festival featuring cultural events such as Pookalam (flower arrangements), Vallam Kali (boat races), and Onasadya (a traditional feast).
• It is considered a symbol of Kerala's rich cultural heritage and unity.

Additional Information

• King Mahabali:
  • According to mythology, King Mahabali was a generous and just ruler who was sent to the underworld by Lord Vishnu's Vamana avatar.
  • Onam celebrates his annual visit to his kingdom as a blessing from Lord Vishnu.
• Onasadya:
  • Onasadya is a grand vegetarian feast served on banana leaves, consisting of multiple dishes like rice, sambar, avial, and payasam.
  • It is an integral part of the Onam celebrations.
• Pookalam:
  • Pookalam refers to intricate floral designs created on the ground as a form of decoration during Onam.
  • Each day of the festival sees the addition of more flowers to the Pookalam.
• Vallam Kali:
  • Vallam Kali, or snake boat races, are thrilling events held during Onam in Kerala's backwaters.
  • It attracts huge crowds and showcases teamwork and traditional boat-building skills.
• Unity in Diversity:
  • Onam is celebrated by people of all religions and communities in Kerala, reflecting the state's unity and harmony.
  • It is a festival that transcends cultural and religious boundaries.