~ Hindu Festivals ~

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Dussehra Puja

The Hindu festival of Dussehra is celebrated with religious observance. The Hindus in India celebrate the festival with great fanfare. The occasion commemorates the victory of good over evil. Therefore, it is considered very auspicious by the Hindus. Since ages, the effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhkarna and son Meghnath are burnt in the northern parts of India, to symbolize the victory of Lord Rama and his army over the three. Another legend says that Goddess Durga assassinated demon Mahishasura and this is the reason why, the day is celebrated as Vijayadashmi in eastern parts of the country.

Dussehra consists of a number of rituals that are followed strictly by people, since ages. It is believed that by performing Dusshera pooja correctly, the Almighty showers blessings on the devotees. While the pooja is performed differently in different regions of India, the purpose of the people remains the same - to seek blessings of their deity and ensure health, wealth and prosperity all through the year. Dussehra puja can be performed by both men and women, provided they are equipped with all the supplies needed and know the correct procedure. Go through the following lines to know more about pooja on Dusshera festival.

Pooja On Dusshera Festival
Since the celebrations of Dusshera are related to the Hindu mythology, hence the puja performed on Dussehra is performed strictly according to the Hindu traditions and culture. While both men and women can perform the puja, people usually call upon a priest to perform the ritual. After providing him with all the materials required, which may include cow dung, limestone, rice, flowers, kheer and other puja items like dhoop, incense sticks, deep etc., the priest starts performing the Dussehra puja. First, he draws the image of any deity, preferably Lord Ganesh, using the cow dung. Two saucers are made out of the wet cow dung, each used for placing the pooja items such as coins, roli, fruit, jhuwara and roli.

The priest chants mantras and performs the pooja by offering flowers and prasad to the deity. Banana, jaggery, rice and radish are generally used to offer as the prasad. When the pooja is over, the priest is offered money (dakshina), while the prasad it offered to the poor. There is a tradition of offering food to the Brahmins of the locality. After attending the Dussehra puja, people start their celebrations of the day. While in north India, they would head towards the nearest Ramlila maidan. In other parts of India, typically in South India, people would indulge in the post Saraswati puja celebrations. In West Bengal, it is the time to take part in Visarjan, the ritual of immersing the idol of Goddess Durga in the nearest water body, such as river or lake.

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Dussehra Rituals

Dussehra is one of the important festivals for Hindus, celebrated with zeal. Also termed as Vijayadashmi, it is preceded by Navratri, which has religious significance associated with it. As per the legends, Dusshera is the day when Lord Rama killed Ravana and rescued his wife - Sita. Therefore, as a symbol of victory of good over evil, Dusshera holds a special place among the myriad festivals that are celebrated by the Hindus. A number of rituals are observed during the festival. The traditions associated with the celebration of the festival are very interesting to witness. In this article, we have given information on the customs and rituals of Dussehra.

Customs & Traditions Of Dusshera

Ramlila
A number of customs are common for Dussehra, in different parts of India, one of them being Ramlila. The tradition of burning the effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhkarna and son Meghnath on Ramlila is followed since ages, in the northern parts of the country. During the festival, Ramlila is conducted at a huge ground or 'maidan'. It is a fair, witnessed by hundreds of people, every year. Oversized effigies (of Ravana, Meghnath and Kumbhkarna) are constructed a month prior to the festival. They are filled with crackers and erected on the eve of Dussehra, at the Ramlila maidan.

Artists disguised as Lord Rama, Sita, Lakshman and Ravana head towards the maidan, with the procession of people, amidst the bursting of crackers. After arriving at the maidan, a small drama is enacted by the artists, depicting the climax of the war between Lord Rama and Ravana. As the climax approaches, the artist, acting as Rama, shoots an arrow towards the effigy of Ravana, in order to set it on fire. Subsequently, the effigy catches fire and then bursts. This is witnessed by hundreds of people, who rejoice on the 'defeat' of Ravana by Rama.

Visarjan Of Idol
In the eastern parts of the country, particularly in West Bengal, Durga Puja celebrations precede Dusshera. On the tenth day of the Pooja, that is, the day of Vijayadashmi, idol of Goddess Durga is immersed into the nearby river or lake, by the devotees. The devotees bid the farewell to the deity very ceremoniously, amidst a procession that sings Devi Songs and dances to the tune of dholaks (traditional drums). This custom is called 'Visarjan'. In the region, Vijayadashmi is celebrated to commemorate the victory of Ma Durga over Mahishasura, whom she killed.

Vidyarambam
The tenth day or Vijayadashmi is also the day of Vidyarambam (beginning of study) in the southern states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala. People in the region worship Goddess Saraswati, the Hindu Goddess of Wisdom, on Vijayadashmi. In the morning of the day, after a Puja, the books and implements (such as pen and musical instruments) are removed from the room. Thereafter, literates write a few alphabets on rice or sand and read out a few sentences from sacred books. It is considered auspicious to start learning any art form, such as music and dance, on this day.

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Gudi Padwa

Gudi Padwa is the Marathi name of the festival Chaitra Shukla Pratipada, which is celebrated by the Hindus on the first day of the Chaitra month of the Hindu calendar. The day is an auspicious one as it marks the beginning of a new year according to the lunisolar Hindu calendar. It is believed that this is the day of the creation of the universe and the legend states that Brahma, the god who created the universe and the life in it, chose this fine day to start. The celebration starts with the ritualistic bath, after which the doorway of the house is decorated with ceremonial Rangoli (designs created using powdered colors) and then "Gudi" is erected and worshipped at the doorway itself. Though the New Year is celebrated according to the international Gregorian calendar in most parts of India, still the festival of Gudi Padwa retains its value among the traditionalists.

There are scientific reasons too behind celebrating the festival of Gudi Padwa. People who believe in meditation and its benefits say that the Gudi should be worshipped within five to ten minutes of early sunrise. This is because the divine consciousness which emanates during the early sunrise, if absorbed, lasts longer. The principles state that, as it is the first day of the year and also the day of creation of the universe, the waves comprising of Tej tatva (the fire principle) flow especially during early sunrise. Gudi Padwa is celebrated during that time of the year when everyone dresses themselves up with clean clothing, which is symbolic to the colors of spring. The festival is an occasion when families sit together and worship the divine power.

Gudi Padwa 2012: 23 March

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Gudi Padwa Tradition

Gudi Padwa is an auspicious festival celebrated in India which marks the beginning of the Maharashtrian New Year. This day is considered pious because it is believed that on this particular day, Lord Brahma created the entire universe out of chaos. The festival is remarkable on the basis of seasonal change too, as this day announces the beginning of the spring season. The Hindu name for this day is Chaitra Shukla Pratipada and this festival is celebrated with great pomp and vigor in the state of Maharashtra. Not just in Maharashtra, it is celebrated in different states too with different names and there are a number of different activities which take place in all these states. A few main activities which take place on this occasion are as follows:

Gudi Padwa Traditional Activities

The Solar Bath
All family members take an early morning bath on this day and before they do that, they apply oil on their body. Then the skin is allowed to absorb the required quantity of oil, after which a bath is taken with warm water. Doing this relaxes the body as this bath rejuvenates the whole body. The remaining oil on the body after the bath helps the body to retain the elasticity of the skin and hence it is necessary to apply oil to the body prior to every bath.

Colored Designs on the Doorstep
People prepare rangolis on the doorsteps of their houses, which are beautiful designs made with dry colors. While decorating the doorsteps, mango leaves and red flowers are used as these are considered auspicious.

Ceremonial Prayers
Soon after the decorations are complete, ceremonial prayers and offerings are made to Lord Brahma, which include davna (a fragrant plant). Later "Havan", a sacrifice in the pious fire, is conducted during which offerings are made to the fire. These offerings are made to Lord Vishnu who is worshipped in number of forms.

Unfurling the Gudi
The Gudi is considered to be Lord Brahma"s flag and it is hoisted to show Lord Rama"s victory over Ravana and his return to Ayodhya. As it is the symbol of victory and the symbol of victory is always held high, so is the Gudi. A yellow cloth is tied to the Gudi along with red flowers and mango leaves. An inverted silver or copper pot is adorned on the top of the bamboo stick.

Panchang Shravan
After the Gudi is hoisted everyone religiously listens to the almanac, which charts the kind happenings during the year. Listening to this almanac is considered auspicious and it is believed to bestow upon the listener with merits equal to taking a dip in holiest of the holy river Ganges.

Tilling the Soil
On this propitious day, tilling the soil and donating the needy with money and other materialistic needs is considered really auspicious. People also visit and spend time with elders for their blessings.

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Gudi Padwa Customs

Gudi Padwa is a major Indian festival which is celebrated by a number of Indians in India and abroad. It is a unique festival because it is celebrated to announce the first day of the Hindu New Year. Though the International New Year is celebrated on the first of January, which is according to the Gregorian calendar, the festival of Gudi Padwa is celebrated according to the lunisolar Indian calendar. This festival is mainly celebrated by the people of Maharashtra. It is believed that religiously performing the rituals during this festival bestows the worshipper with divine energies. Each ritual is strictly conducted and has different ways for each of them; so, one needs to know in detail about the customs.

Gudi Padwa Rituals

The Auspicious Bath
The festival starts with an oil bath, which is done by applying oil to the body. Then the skin is allowed to absorb the required quantity of oil, after which a bath is taken with warm water. Taking bath with warm water pleases the body and helps it relax. The remaining oil on the body after the bath helps the body to retain the elasticity of the skin and hence it is necessary to apply oil to the body prior to taking a bath.

Rangoli on the doorstep
After taking an auspicious bath early in the morning, the next step is to decorate the entrance of the house. While decorating the doorstep, mango leaves and red colored flowers are used as these are considered auspicious.

Puja
Soon after the decorations are complete, the routine rituals are conducted. During these rituals, Lord Brahma is offered prayers and davna (a fragrant plant). Later, "Havan" is conducted during which offerings are made through fire. These offerings are made to Lord Vishnu who is worshipped in a number of forms.

Hoisting of the Gudi
The Gudi is considered to be Lord Brahma"s flag and it is hoisted to show Lord Rama"s victory over Ravana and his return to Ayodhya. As it is the symbol of victory and the symbol of victory is always held high, so is the Gudi. A yellow cloth is tied to the Gudi with red flowers and mango leaves. An inverted silver or copper pot is adorned on the top of the bamboo stick.

Panchang Shravan
After the Gudi is hoisted, everyone religiously listens to the almanac which charts the kind happenings during the year. Listening to this almanac is considered auspicious and it is considered to bestow upon the listener with merits equal to taking a dip in holiest of the holy river Ganges.

Prasadam is offered
During Gudi Padwa, it is considered that the Neem tree absorbs the Prajapati frequencies the most; hence this bitter plant too is offered among other offerings. Among other offerings Gram lentil, honey, cumin seeds and Asafetida are offered along with chanting of auspicious verses from scriptures.

Apart from tilling the soil and donating the needy with money and other materialistic needs, people also visit and spend time with elders to get their blessings.

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Gudi Padwa Date

India is known as the country of colors because of the numerous festivals celebrated here. All these festivals are the reminder of the secular unity of this country with rich cultural heritage. The Gudi Padwa festival marks the commencement of the Hindu luni-solar calendar year. Though a major Indian festival, not all Hindus celebrate this festival because the Indian culture varies from one part of the country to another. Almost every part of the country has different days assigned to start the year, depending on the calendar that used to be followed by the ancient civilizations of that part of the country. The festival marks the beginning of nature"s cycle too, as at this time of the year the weather changes and along with it changes the atmosphere around. A number of seasonal offerings are made while worshipping the Gudi.

The day of Gudi Padwa is an auspicious one because of different reasons, the first one being more of a scientific one. It was believed by ancient sages that on this particular day during the early sunrise, the divine consciousness emanating from the sun is absorbed the most. The Tej Tatva or the creative fire principle also emanates from the sun god. The Gudi, which is a fresh bamboo staff adorned with a yellow cloth, a garland of red flowers and an inverted copper pot on the top, is actually a human adaptation of the Sushumna Nadi which forms the base of the human torso. This stick should be hoisted on a clean ground and should be slightly tilted. While raising this Gudi, the balance of Shiva and Shakti should be invoked.

Gudi Padwa Festival Date
There are often confusions regarding the date of the festival as it is decided according to the Indian traditional lunisolar calendar. According to the Hindu calendar, the festival falls on the beginning of the Chaitra month, which is also the first month according to the Hindu calendar. The coming year will see Gudi Padwa being celebrated on March 23, which is a Friday. It announces the beginning of Nandana nama Samvatsar, Saka Samvatsar 1934 (2012-2013 according to Gregorian Calendar). It is believed that the first day of the Chaitra month is also the beginning of Vasant Rithu (spring season) and this day was chosen to be the first day of the year because it is considered to be the day when the universe was created by the creator god, Brahma.

Gudi Padwa Date: March 23, 2012

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Gudi Padwa History

Gudi Padwa is a festival which is celebrated in the southern parts of India and this festival is remarkable because it has a number of legends and stories associated with it. Though it is not a major festival in most parts of the country, people still take out time from their busy schedules to celebrate it. The festival indicates the beginning of the traditional Indian New Year. According to the Vedas, a year is divided into twelve months and this is followed by the entire world because Vedas are considered to be one of the most ancient texts known to man. The month of Chaitra is supposedly the first month of the year and there are a number of reasons to support this claim including natural, historical and spiritual. There are numerous references in the Hindu scriptures and mythology regarding this festival which supports the claims of it being considered as the first day of the year.

Gudi Padwa Festival History

The major reason behind this day being regarded as the first day of the year is that, during the first day of Chaitra month, the sun states itself at a position above Vasant intersection, which is the point of intersection of the equator and the meridians. This position of the sun denotes the commencement of the season of spring. The religious scripture of Bhagvad Gita states Lord Krishna saying, "Among the seasons, the exhilarating Vasant season is my manifestation." In this season nature rejuvenates itself. The day is also termed special because this was the day when Lord Ram Chandra killed the ape king Vali to crown his brother Sugriv the king of Kishkindha. This is also the day when after one year from slaying Vali, he came back to Ayodhya after killing Ravana and a number of his demon allies.

Another incident which makes this day auspicious is that, on this very day, the Sakas registered victory over the Huns. This day also marks the commencement of the Shalivahan calendar and this happened soon after Shalivahan vanquished his Hun enemies. If Brahma Puran is to be believed, then this is the day when Brahma created the universe out of chaos. These are the major historical and mythological instances because of which this pious day is celebrated.

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Gudi Padwa Significance

Gudi Padwa celebrates the beginning of the traditional Hindu year and the day of the festival is the first day of the Chaitra month of the Hindu calendar. It is the Marathi name for festival Chaitra Shukla Pratipada, which is celebrated to welcome the Hindu New Year. This day also marks the descent of the spring season and thus the festival is a colorful one which is celebrated in most part of country with great pomp and show. The celebrations start even before sunrise when people take the auspicious bath after applying oil to their body. The main entrance of the house is decorated with mango leaves and red flowers which are considered favorable for this occasion. Prior to hoisting the Gudi, Lord Brahma is worshipped. He is worshipped because on this particular day he created the universe out of chaos, for which he is also known as the creator of the world.

Importance of Gudi Padwa
When the worship of Lord Brahma is complete, the Gudi is hoisted and Lord Vishnu is invoked to shower his blessings upon the worshipper and his family. The day is a significant one and there are a number of reasons behind it. It is said that Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after slaying Ravana and his allies on this day and the people of Ayodhya celebrated it as the beginning of a new era. History also states that the Gudi is hoisted on this particular day to commemorate the number of victories of Shivaji Maharaj. Thus, considered as the symbol of victory or a victory flag, the Gudi is adorned with mango leaves, a yellow silk cloth and a garland adornment along with red flowers as these things are considered auspicious. Rangolis are also made around the Gudi and at the entrance of houses.

History also has it that the Shakas defeated the Huns on this particular day. Hence, this day is also the first day of the Shalivahan calendar as this was the day king Shalivahan vanquished the Hun dynasty. The most important event though which makes this day so special is that, according to the Brahma Puran, this is the day when Lord Brahma created the universe and Satyug began. The day is also considered auspicious because the divine consciousness which emanates during the early sunrise, if absorbed, lasts longer.

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Gudi Padwa Songs

Gudi Padwa is a festival which is celebrated mainly by the people of Maharashtra. It is the first day of the Chaitra month of the traditional Hindu calendar and hence is celebrated as the New Year. At the same time, it also marks the arrival of the season of spring. Gudi Padwa is known by different names in different parts of the country, e.g., Nau Roz in Kashmir, Baisakhi in Punjab, Cheti Chand in Sindhi, Naba Barsha in Bengal, Goru Bihu in Assam, Puthandu in Tamil Nadu and Vishu in Kerala. The day is termed auspicious because it is believed that this was the day when Lord Brahma created the universe out of chaos. The Hindus in Maharashtra religiously follow the rites related to this festival by taking the auspicious bath, hoisting the Gudi, chanting prayers and singing songs in praise of the gods. There are a few songs which are associated with the festival and we are listing here a few out of those.

Gudi Padwa Songs Lyrics

Aakashi zhep ghe re
Aakashi zhep ghe re, pakhara
sodi sonyacha pinjara

tujbhavati vaibhav, mayaa
fala rashal milate khaya
sukhalolup zali kaya
ha tuthvar vedya ghesi aasara

ghar kasale hi tari kara
vishasman moti chara
mohche bandhan dvara
tuj aadavito ha kaisa, umbara

tuj pankh dile devane
kar vihar samrthyane
dari, dongar, hiravi raane
ja oalandun ya sarita, sagara

kashtavin fal na milate
tuj kalate, pari, na valate
hrudyat vyatha hi jadate
ka jiv bichara hoi bavara

ghamantun moti phulale
shramdev ghari avatarle
ghar prasannatene natale
ha yog jeevani aala, sajira

Amrutahuni god naam tuze

amrutahuni god naam tuze dewa
man maze keshwa ka ba n ghe

sang pandhariraya kai karu yashi
ka roop dhyanashi n ye tuze

kiratni baista nidre nagvile
man maze guntale vishysukha


haridas garjati harinamachy kirti
naye mazya chitti nama mahne

Paule chalati pandharichi wat

paule chalati pandharichi wat
sukhi sansarachi soduniya gath

ganjuniya bhari dukh daridryane
padata rikame bhakariche tat

aapt ist sare sagesoyare te
pahuniya sare phirwati path

gheta Prasad shri vittalacha
aasha daridryacha whawa naynat

man shant hota punha lage oodh
taisa aani god sansaracha that

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Significance of Gudi

The Hindus in India celebrate a number of festivals which signifies their rich cultural heritage and a long history of traditions. People in India take out time from their busy schedule to celebrate these festivals, as these festivals remind them of the earth they are grounded in. Similar is the festival of Gudi Padwa which marks the beginning of the traditional Hindu new calendar year, although, different people living in different parts of India celebrate New Year at different times of the year. This festival is unique because it is believed that Lord Brahma chose this particular day to create the universe. People follow a number of rituals which start even before the sun rises, like taking the auspicious bath which includes application of oil to the body before bathing. Later, the doorway is decorated with mango leaves and red flowers, rangoli is designed and the Gudi is hoisted. Lord Brahma is invoked and the worshippers absorb the divine consciousness emanating from the sun.

Importance of Gudi

Though a Hindu festival, only those Hindus who are related to a particular belief follow all the rituals related to this festival. The Hindus who are the followers of goddess Kundalini hoist the Gudi in front of their houses to invite her in. A Gudi is a bamboo stick on the top of which an inverted pitcher is placed; the pitcher is of a particular shape which denotes the form of the goddess. Yellow colored silk adornments are put on the Gudi along with garlands of red flowers and twigs of mango tree. The Gudi is hoisted at an angle towards the right hand side of the main entrance of the house; this is because the right side is considered to be the active part of the soul. The ground where the Gudi is hoisted is prepared with great care and a swastika is drawn where the Gudi is supposed to be hoisted.

The Gudi is also considered sacred because there are other significant symbols which are associated with it. Shiva Shakti, which is a major force present in the universe, is associated with the Gudi and is invoked while worshipping it. These are the forces which help the Gudi accept the divine energies emitting from the rising sun. The Gudi also symbolizes the Sushumna nadi of the body, which has a major role in reaching the divine consciousness. There are other symbols too which make the Gudi an important part of this festival.

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Onam Feast

Onam, the state festival of Kerala, is celebrated with great fanfare, by the Malayalees all over the world. While Thiruvonam (the tenth day) is the important day of the festival, the celebrations continue until chatayam, in many parts of the state. A number of rituals are followed during the festival. Although the rituals of Onam are purely Hindu, there is a tradition that is followed by people, irrespective of their cast and religion. It is the lavish Onam feast. 'Onasadya' or the traditional feast of Onam is an inevitable part of the festival. There is an old saying in Malayalam - 'Kanam Vittu Onam Unnanam', which literally means that men go to the extend of selling their possessions to eat Onasadya on Thiruvonam.

Onasadya Feast

The Meal
Rice as its main course of Onasadya, a strictly vegetarian feast, which is accompanied by a variety of side dishes including as curries, uppaeries (dishes made of vegetables), pappadam (round crisp flour cake), uppilittathu/achaar (pickle) and pradhaman (pudding), arranged in a definite order and laid in a particular way. The feast is served on banana leaf. Traditionally, at least eleven side dishes are served in the feast. The number can go up to 13 or even 15 items.

There is no concept of spoon or fork in Onasadya, because the food is eaten with hands. A specific way of serving the dishes is followed. All the curries are served first and then rice is added. First, the rice is eaten with parippu (dal) and neyyu (clarified butter) then with sambar, followed by rasam. Thereafter, two kinds of payasam (popularly known as pradhaman) are served. Finally, the rice is served with moru (spiced buttermilk).

Dishes Of Onasadya

Erissery
Salt and chilies are added to raw plantains and yams sliced and boiled in water to make Erissery. One can also boil pulp of the coconut grounded with a little cumin seed. Later, a few mustard seeds along with scraped coconut pulp are fried in coconut oil and added to it for the flavor.

Kalan
Salt and chilies are added to raw banana known as nenthra-kaya and yams are sliced and boiled in water. The main ingredient of kalan is hung curd, which is mixed with ground coconut pulp and poured in proper time in the mixture. Mustard seeds fried in coconut oil are added for flavor.

Olan
Although the ingredients may vary from region to region, pumpkin and French beans are generally preferred for making Olan for Onasadya. The pumpkin and French beans are cooked in water, green chilies and salt. Fresh coconut milk is poured onto the mixture and then it is given a boil. After it is boiled on simmer, kariveppila (curry leaves) and fresh coconut oil are added for flavor.

Avial
All types of vegetables are boiled in water with salt and chilies. Tamarind and well grounded coconut pulp are added to the mixture, in proper time. Fresh coconut oil is poured at the end of the preparation and kariveppila (curry leaves) are added for flavor. Depending upon their taste, people may include or exclude Turmeric powder from the avial recipe.

Thoran
For preparing thoran, green beans, cabbage or beetroot can be used. The vegetable is sliced into tiny bits and then boiled in water, with salt and red or green chilies, until all the water evaporates. Later, a few mustard seeds along with scraped coconut pulp are fried in coconut oil and then added to it for the flavor.

List Of Other Dishes Of Onasadya
Parippu (Dal)
Sambhar
Rasam
Mulakushyam
Pachady
Kichady
Pappadam (Pappad)
Pradhaman (Pudding/Payasam)
Sharkara Upperi (Sweet of Jaggery)
Banana Chips
Acharu (Pickle)
Moru

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Onam Legends

Onam - the festival of harvest - is celebrated with high spirits and enthusiasm in Kerala and the Malayalees all over the world. The air is filled with festivity, which starts from Attam (the first day of the festival) and lasts until the culmination of the festival. Many days prior to the festival, the people indulge themselves in preparations for welcoming their Maharaja Mahabali, who, according to a legend, visits them every year on the occasion of Onam, to enquire about their wellbeing. Apart from the legend of Mahabali, a number of stories are connected to the harvest festival.

Legends Of Onam Festival

Return Of Mahabali
Once upon a time, there lived a benevolent and mighty Asura (demon) king Mahabali, the grandson of Prahlada. Mahabali was the ruler of Kerala. His people were happy to have him as the king and there was no sorrow, poverty, disease or premature death in his kingdom. Afraid of his rising popularity, the ever-jealous gods approached Lord Vishnu, with a request to put an end to his rule. Counting on his charitable nature, Vishnu disguised himself as a Brahmin dwarf called 'Vamana' and sought three steps of land from Mahabali. However, Vishnu then increased his size to cosmic proportions and covered the entire earth in one step and the entire heaven in the second. When he asked Mahabali, where to place his third step, he humbly offered his head to the divine deity. Pleased with his virtues, Vishnu made him the king of hell and granted a boon to him that he could visit his kingdom once a year. Thus, Onam is celebrated to welcome the legendary king returning annually to his earthly abode and kingdom.

Boat Palliodam
Once when some men were sailing on a boat called 'Palliodam', which was laden with food, it got stuck in the narrow turning of the river. The head oarsmen called Bhattathiripad set out to seek help from the hut near the river. However, when he reached there, he found a poor widow and her children weeping because of hunger and poverty. The kind-hearted man took some food from his boat and gave it to them. As soon as it was done, the boat could be easily maneuvered to the main course of river again. Since that day, it has become a tradition to feed a poor person at least on the day of Onam.

Vanishing Boy
Once upon a time, the head of Katoor Mana, the Nambuditi Brahmin family, was bathing on the near Aranmulla in river Pampa. After offering prayers to the Gods, he was waiting for a poor man to feed, to complete his religious duties. While waiting, he started praying to Lord Krishna. After some time, he saw a poor boy in rags standing before him. The Brahmin lovingly gave him a bath, dressed him and fed him well. However, it is said that the boy disappeared after eating and could be found nowhere. He spotted the boy near the Aranmulla Temple, just to lose him again. Brahmin concluded the boy to be the God himself and since then, Nambudiri Brahmins offer food to the deity in Aranmulla Temple on Onam, every year.

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Onam Celebrations

The state festival of Kerala - Onam - is celebrated with zeal by the Malayalees in the state as well as in different parts of the world. Marked with fun and fervor, the celebrations of the festival comprise of a wonderful spectrum of rituals and traditions followed by the people. The most important day of the festival is Thiruvonam (the tenth day of Onam), which is eagerly awaited by the people. Until some time back, the festival was only a private affair, a kind of family reunion. Today, it has taken the shape of a community function. Apart from the natives of Kerala, innumerable Malayalee Associations across India as well as abroad have taken the festival as the wonderful opportunity to rejuvenate the social ties, by organizing cultural programs during the festive season.


Onam Festival Celebrations

Pookkalam
Attam marks the beginning of Onam. From the very first day, people put pookkalam (floral rangoli) at their entranceway, using a number of flowers. It is a tradition and a part of the celebrations of Onam festival. In the Malayalee committees, pookkalam competitions are held. Various designs, both simple and intricate are made using flowers like marigold, roses, jasmine, etc. Small children take pleasure in gathering flowers from their premises. Apart from the use of flowers, people make use of colors to decorate their Pookkalam. Hectic preparations for the ten-day carnival start from Attam.

Dances Performances
Kaikotti kali (also known as Thiruvathira kali) is the main dance of Onam. This is the traditional dance, truly native to Kerala. Kaikotti kali is performed by middle-aged women, who stand around deepam (traditional Kerala deep). The women are clad in set saree (traditional Kerala dress) and accessorized with gold jewelry. Eight to twelve women can perform the dance. Another dance form that is performed during the season is known as 'Pulikali' or 'Kaduvakali'. In this dance, performers (mostly men) paint themselves like tigers in bright yellow, red and black colors and dance ferociously to the accompaniment of musical instruments such as 'udukku' and 'thakil'.

Playing Games
Onam is incomplete without games in it. The outdoor games such as 'Talappanthukali' (ball game), 'Kayyankali' (one-to-one fight between men, without using weapon), 'Attakalam' (fight between men, played in groups) Ambeyyal (Archery) and 'Kutu Kutu' (Kabaddi) are the popular Onam games, played with great enthusiasm and high level of energy, during the festive season of Onam. In some parts of Kerala, 'Kummattikali' is played by artists (typically men), wherein they clad themselves with the attire made by using plaited grass and wear a big wooden mask.

Feasting
Onam feast forms a prominent part of the celebration of the festival. Irrespective of the caste and religion, all the Malayalees feast on Thiruvonam. A number of lip-snacking dishes are prepared by people. Usually, a vegetarian meal is prepared, but non-veg items also form a part of the feast, in some parts of the state. Melt-in-the mouth payasams are made for the feast. It is believed that every Malayali should eat the Onam feast on the festival, even if he/she has to sell all the possessions.

Boat Race
Vallamkali or the popular snake boat race is a sporting event, organized at several parts of the state on uthratadhi nakshatram of Chingam (Malayalam month). Oarsmen take part enthusiastically in the Vallamkali. It is something is especially popular in the southern districts of Kerala. Apart from Onam, the vallamkali is organized annually at Aaranmula River situated in Pathanamthitta District of Kerala.

Shopping
Last, but not the least - Onam calls for shopping of clothes and furbishes for the home. It is a part of the tradition of Onam, to wear new clothes and buy attire for the family and friends. Apart from clothing, people enjoy shopping for new furniture. During the festive season, season sales outlets open up (such as Government-owned chain of Maveli stores - fair price shops), which provide myriad items at economical rates.

[MysteRy]

Onam Games

Onam is one of the most important festivals of Kerala and it is celebrated with immense joy and fervor all over the state by people of all communities. It is said that Onam is celebrated to welcome King Mahabali, whose spirit is said to visit the state of Kerala at the time of Onam. As this festival falls during the fortnight of the Malayalam New Year, it is welcomed with a special enthusiasm and zest. The celebration goes on for ten days and the tenth day of the festival called Thiruvonam is celebrated with grand traditional cuisines, beautiful dances and classic music and Onakalikal – the traditional Onam games.

After the gala Onam feast, wonderful Kathakali dance performances, socializing and exchanging warm wishes, Onam celebrations are marked with lots of indoor and outdoor traditional sports and activities to indulge in, collectively known as 'Onakalikal'. Besides the usual games of chess, dice or cards, played by the old people there are football matches, personal combats, archery and boxing for the young and more energetic. These games add to the enthusiasm and vibrancy of the festival. People of all age groups participate in the festivals and enjoy the festivities.

Traditional Onam Games

Ball Games

Pantukali
The most popular outdoor game is Pantukali in which the ball is prepared by tying a few pebbles in the layers of dried-up plantain leaves with the help of a plantain or coconut fiber. The players are divided into two groups and a stick called 'natta' is planted at one end of the court. The court is basically an open space with lines drawn at to indicate the limit beyond which the ball should not be thrown. One party serves the ball and tries to hit the stick while others try to catch it. If the ball is caught then the man is out otherwise he gets another chance.

Combats

Kayyankali
Combats are usually of two kinds - those that are undertaken singly known as Kayyankali. It is a violent game and has all the risks of an ancient duel. However no weapons or horses are allowed. In this game there is a display of power. The participants fight one to one. This game is basically the display of power. There are fights, wounds, blood and even death at times.

Attakalam
Attakalam is another kind of combat which is comparatively less hazardous in nature compared to the Kayyankali. In this the game is not played individually rather the players are made to play into groups. A large circle is drawn on the plain sand floor and one group is placed inside the circle. A member of the second group tries to bring the former outside the circle and both are free to use force. However, once any member of the inside team steps of the circle, he is considered out. After all the members of a team are dragged out, the other team takes its position inside the circle. If a member of any team cannot be driven out, his party is declared victorious.

Ambeyyal
Ambeyyal is actually the game of ‘archery’. In this game, two groups of young men shoot blunted arrows at each other. It is a game to test the patience, skill and persistence of the players. However, since the arrows are strong and are delivered with force, they still manage to hurt many. The bows are made of about 18-inch long bamboo. There is a mark in the form of a little stick called 'cheppu' and those who hit this mark are allowed to carry all the arrows lying on the ground for their team.

Kutukutu
Popularly known as Kabbaddi in rest of India, Kutukutu is a simple group game. In this game, there are two teams with eight players each. It is played in a rectangular court which is divided into two halves, one for each team. One man from one group advances from the middle line towards the opponent's area uttering 'Kutu Kutu' in one continuous breath and try to touch the opponents and run back to the central line without being caught. However, if he is physically caught and is out of breath before touching the central line, he is out of the game.

[MysteRy]

Onam Rituals

The harvest festival of Kerala - Onam - is celebrated with zeal and great fanfare by Malayalees all over the state, India and abroad. It is an enthralling carnival during the festive season, when people indulge themselves in merrymaking by playing a number of games, shopping, feasting, dances and taking part in the community events wherein cultural programs are organized. Since it is a harvest festival, a number of rituals are followed by people, especially the farmers. The customs of Onam may vary from region to region, because people in the southern state of Kerala are known for the performance of rituals that are native to their place.

Onam Customs

Onakazhcha
On the ninth day of Onam, tenants of the family, dependants and hangers-on present the fruits of their labor, such as vegetables and coconut oil, to 'Karanavar', (the eldest member of the family) in a ritual called 'Onakazhcha'. In return, they are treated with a sumptuous feast on the main day of Onam. It is also customary for the village artisans to present the Karanavar of each Nair Tarawad, a specimen of his handiwork in return of the presents of cloth or rice.

Maveli Puja
Maveli Puja is one of the prominent rituals of Onam. Specific to the Malabar (northern) part of Kerala, people residing there perform the Maveli Puja on the Uthradam (ninth day) and Thiruvonam (tenth day) of Onam. In order to perform the puja, three small sized figurines, made of red sand are erected, at the verandah of households. The puja is performed early in the morning as well as in the dusk, by the prominent man (generally the bread-winner) of the home. The three red sands are regarded as king Mahabali.

Thripunitura Athachamayam
Thripunitura Athachamayam is a grand procession held at Thripunithura, in Ernakulam district of Kerala. The custom is followed since ages. The grand procession marks the beginning of Onam celebrations in Kerala. According to the historical records, this was the royal tradition followed at the time, when Maharajas of erstwhile Kochi State traveled to Thripunithura Fort, accompanied by their entire entourage. Today, even in the absence of the King, the custom retains is legacy and charm. Caparisoned elephants are the highlight of the procession.

Onathallu
Onathallu is a mock fight performed to mark the advent of the festive season of Onam. Also referred to as Kayyankali, Onathallu is a very old ritual that is followed in many regions of Kerala. In the barehanded fight, the combatants are clad in mundu (dhoti) or plain white cotton cloth that is worn high, like tight shorts. The men are accessorized with a sort of bandage around their legs, which protects them from injury. Apart from being a ritual, Onathallu is an interesting game that is performed by the male members of the family, during Onam.