There are many interesting legends associated with
the origin & history of Onam. Well, in this article, we will brief
you on the Onam festival story. When it comes to the Onam festivity
celebration, though the entire nation gets involved, but the Nambudiri
Brahmins of Kerala especially take an interest in all the activities, as
they connect the origin of Onam with their own community. Read on to
know more about the Onam history.
Story of King Mahabali
King Mahabali is one of the most renowned kings of Kerala, who is
believed to have made the people experience the best period of their
lives. Therefore, the term of his tenure is referred to as the golden
era. The king was loved by his people and the Gods could not see that
happen. As a result, the king was sent to the nether world. However, the
king requested the deities to allow him to visit his people once in a
year. People are of the belief that every year, the spirit of king
Mahabali visits the people of Kerala on the Onam festival.
Story of Boat Palliodam
Once it happened that, a boat that was fully loaded with food, got
stuck in the middle of the river. Then, a wise man, by the name
Bhattathiripad, came forward and fed a poor family that resided on the
banks of the river. The boat then moved forward. From this incident, the
people began the tradition of feeding a poor and needy family on the
Onam festive occasion.
