|
Thiruvonam - Onam Festival
Thiruvonam pronounced as Thiru Onam or Tiru Onam. Where Thiru or
Tiru is the equavalent of ‘ ‘ ‘ Sri ‘ in Hindi
and stands for holy or sacred. Thiruvonam is the tenth and the most
important day of Onam celebrations for the people of Kerala
The importance of Thiruvonam is due to the popular belief that Lord
Mahabali comes to visit the people on the tenth day of Onam.
Some scholars say that the name Thiru Onam comes from the name Sravanotsav
out of which 'Sra' was taken out and 'vana' was transformed to 'Onam'.
To the word Onam, 'Thiru' was added as the asterism Sravana on which
Onam is celebrated was sacred to Lord Vishnu.
Thiruvonam day is so special for keralites that preparations for
the day are done in the most elaborate and the grandest manner possible
by every keralite irrespective of cast, creed or religion. Early in
the morning people perform special prayers to invoke divine blessings.
Women clean up the house and decorate a flower mat known as Pookkalam
or Athapookalam in the front courtyard of the house. This is to welcome
the spirit of the legendary King who is so much appreciated by his
people centuries after his golden reign
And at lunch time since its no ordinary day the Onasadya is prepared
, sadya is literally a festival of food all prepared using traditional
recipes. Another reason to prepare such a feast as sadya is to impress
upon the spirit of the King that his people are happy and wish him
well. Thiru Onam evenings are spent playing games and indulging in
cultural events. Lightening and dazzling display of fire also takes
place with much fan fair. Childern in kerala usually get a 10 day
off for the festival after their exams which are also called as Onam
exams or Onappariksha in malayalam.
|
