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Written by Vijay Bhatt 8-21-2021 for Blog posting.
ONAM FESTIVAL:
HAPPY ONAM to all Malayalis.
Onam Celebrations ( Aug 12-Aug 23 2021: The most important religious and cultural festival of people of Kerala and Malayalis.
Mythological background:
In Bhagwat-katha there is a story of king Bali ( AKA Mahabali)
This King Bali paternal lineage was: Rishi Kashyap->Hiranyakashyap-> Pralhad-> Virochan -> Mahabali. He was considered an ASUR.
-By defeating DEVAs, when Mahabali won all three worlds ( Skies, Earth, and the Paataal), Devas became uncomfortable, requested Vishnu to fight Bali. But Vishnu refused to fight his own devotee.
Mahabali had arranged a celebration YAJNA for victory.
Vishnu took an Avatar of a very small body of dwarf - VAAMANA, After the YAJNA King Mahabali, granted wishes of all. The small dwarf boy VAAMANA asked for 3 simple small size steps worth of space. Mahabali graciously agreed. Vishnu grew almost infinite size first two steps covered all areas Mahabali ruled. For the third step, Bali offered his head. Vishnu put his foot and pushed him in PAATAAL. Devas were happy. At the same time Vishnu was happy for Mahabali's devotion. Vishnu LIBERATED and blessed Bali a boon that ONCE A YEAR Mahabali can revisit all the space and land he ruled.
Traditions and celebrations:
ONAM is the festival of celebration for Mahabali's devotion, yearly return to his kingdom, his righteousness, virtues of DHARMA, humility and values of keeping the promise to VAAMANA.
The Thrikkakara temple in Kochi is VAAMANA avtar temple and is the main center of festivities. This is also temple of Mahabali, and Shiva.
Onam is a combination of religious festivities of King Mahabali's annual return, annual harvest season, trade, and celebration for 10 days of cultural programs, decorations, RANGOLI sports competitions, varieties of dances, performing arts.
Daily varieties of fancy foods and fun!
Written by Vijay Bhatt 8-21-2021 for Blog posting.
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