AMN /
Kerala is celebrating its biggest harvest festival Thiru Onam today. Keralites across the glob is celebrating Onam as the home coming of noble legendary King Mahabali and his prosperous rule.
Various cultural and religious programmes are being organized through out the state in connection with Onam.
Thiru Onam celebrations started in Kerala with Onam Pookkalam, which is the floral carpet laid on the floors in the early morning.
This Onam Pookkalam is believed to welcome legendary King Mahabali.
Onam Sadya, the traditional feast served on plantain leaves with rice and variety of curries and sweet called payasam is another significant part of Onam celebrations.
Along with houses, Onam Sadya is served in temples including famous hill shrine of Sabari Mala, Guruvayur and Trikkakkara, which is believed to be the capital of legendary King Mahabali.
Thousands of cultural programmes are also being organised in every districts of Kerala today.
Onam is not just a festival of ecstasy, but it is a memory bank for Keralites.
Meanwhile President, Vice President and Prime Minister have greeted people on the occasion of Onam. In his message, President Pranab Mukherjee said, Onam is a unique secular festival celebrated by the people of Kerala belonging to all communities, irrespective of caste, creed and economic standing.
He said, the festival represents the spontaneous celebrations of the common people as they welcome their legendary King Mahabali, who was loved by all for his just and benevolent rule.
The President said, coinciding with the harvest season, Onam brings with it optimism for the future and gratitude for nature’s bounty.
He hoped that this year’s Onam will usher in a new era of happiness and prosperity across the country.
In his message, Vice President Hamid Ansari said, Onam marks the beginning of the harvest season in various parts of the country. He said, celebrated with traditional gaiety and enthusiasm, the festival reflects the central role of agriculture in Indian society.
The Vice President hoped that the festival will usher in peace and prosperity in the country.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, the spirit of togetherness with which Onam is celebrated is truly gladdening. In his message, Mr Modi hoped that the festival furthers the spirit of joy and prosperity in the society.