Onam 2023 is another yearly festival and a vibrant tapestry of culture, history, and community spirit. This year’s event, which will take place from August 21 to August 30, will be mostly held in Kerala, a state in India known for its beautiful green landscapes. Onam 2023 will be a big event that celebrates the harvest and the mythical return of King Mahabali, whose reign in Kerala’s past is still seen as a golden time.
Tracing its roots to ancient Kerala, Onam started as a harvest festival. Yet, it also carries a mythological significance. Legend holds that King Mahabali was a generous and just ruler. However, the gods grew concerned about his increasing power. Vamana, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, visited Mahabali and requested three paces of land. Agreeing to the request, Mahabali soon found Vamana expanding to cover the universe in three steps. Consequently, Mahabali descended to the underworld but earned the privilege to visit his people once a year, an event celebrated as Onam.
This year, the celebrations promise to be more vibrant than ever, featuring various cultural events, parades, and activities. Traditional dances like Thiruvathira and boat races are the highlights. Moreover, easing pandemic restrictions has encouraged people to participate in community events with renewed enthusiasm.
Onam is not just a cultural extravaganza; it’s a significant economic event for the state of Kerala. According to reports, the state government estimates that around ₹8,000 crore is needed to meet the festival expenses. This includes welfare pension payouts, bonuses for government employees, and special festival allowances. The government plans to raise ₹3,000 crore through borrowing from the Reserve Bank of India and is exploring other avenues for the remaining amount.
The festival’s economic impact extends to over 13 lakh employees and laborers, making it a crucial period for the state’s economy. The festival also boosts consumer spending, thereby benefiting local businesses and artisans. However, the state government faces challenges in funding the festival, partly due to borrowing limits set by the central government. Despite these challenges, Onam remains a vital economic driver, especially in a post-pandemic world where economic activity is slowly growing.
As Onam 2023 draws near, people exchange heartfelt wishes and greetings. “Happy Onam” and “Onashamsakal,” which translates to ‘Onam greetings’ in Malayalam, are popular phrases. Social media platforms are awash with colourful images and messages that capture the festival’s essence.
Although Onam is a staple in Kerala, the festival has crossed state lines. Malayalee communities in other Indian states and even abroad celebrate Onam with equal fervour. Specifically, in 2023, states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and the global Malayalee diaspora are joining in the celebrations.
Onam, centered around themes of unity, prosperity, and the joyous return of King Mahabali, involves various rituals. One notable practice is the creation of Pookkalam, a floral rangoli designed to welcome King Mahabali. Additionally, people prepare traditional Onasadya feasts and visit temples to offer prayers.
In summary, Onam 2023 embodies the spirit of unity and prosperity. Whether in Kerala or part of a Malayalee community elsewhere, the festival provides a sense of belonging and joy. From its historical origins to its modern-day celebrations, Onam continues to unite people in the most colourful ways.
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