Shillong, August 30: Onam, a vibrant and joyous festival, is back again. It is celebrated in the southern state of Kerala. Onam marks the homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali.

Although there are several stories related to this festival, the most popular one is the return of King Mahabali.

According to the story, in Mahabali’s kingdom, every individual was treated equally, and all lived together and in peace. However, looking at this aura, the Deva king Indra felt threatened and approached Lord Vishnu to put the king in his place. Following which, Lord Vishnu transformed into his fifth incarnation, a small Brahmin boy called Vamana, and approached Mahabali.

The king, who was at that time conducting a yajna, asked Vamana (small brahmin boy) to choose anything that he wanted from his kingdom. Vamana asked for only three steps of land, and King Mahabali accepted his demand. Soon the dwarf-sized Vamana quickly grew into the skies, and with his first step he covered the earth, and with his second step he covered the heavens. With this, there was no place left for King Mahabali to fulfil his promise, so he offered his head, and with this, Vamana sent him to Pathala (the netherworld) with his third step. However, Mahabali’s wish was accepted by Lord Vishnu to let him visit his subjects once a year, and this return day of King Mahabali is celebrated as Onam.

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It is said that this happened under the star sign of Thiruvonam in the month of Chingam, and ever since, every year during the 10 days of Onam, the people of Kerala eagerly await their beloved king.

Onam 2023: Date

This year, the festivities of Onam started on August 20th (Sunday) and will end on August 31st (Thursday).

Onam is a time for families to come together, exchange gifts, and indulge in delicious traditional feasts.

Onam 2023: Timings

Thiruvonam Nakshathram begins at 02:43 a.m. and will end at 11:50 p.m. on August 29, 2023.

The Hub News wishes its readers and followers a Very happy Onam!

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