Onam 2024: Date, Time and Significance

Onam is one of the most important festivals celebrated in Kerala, symbolising the harvest season and the return of the mythical King Mahabali. It is a festival filled with cultural traditions, family gatherings, and festive joy, observed by all communities in Kerala, regardless of religion. In 2024, Onam will be celebrated from Friday, 6 September to Sunday, 15 September, with the main Onam day, Thiruvonam, falling on Sunday, 15 September.

Onam 2024 Date and Time
Start Date: Friday, September 6, 2024.
End Date: Sunday, September 15, 2024.
Main Onam Day (Thiruvonam): Sunday, September 15, 2024.
Thiruvonam Nakshathram Begins: 08:32 PM on Saturday, September 14, 2024.
Thiruvonam Nakshathram Ends: 06:49 PM on Sunday, September 15, 2024.

The 10 Days of Onam

• Atham (Day 1): The festival starts with the creation of the Pookalam, a floral arrangement, and prayers mark the beginning of the celebrations.


• Chithira (Day 2): People clean their homes, and the Pookalam is made larger.


• Chodhi (Day 3): New clothes (Onakkodi) are purchased, and the Pookalam continues to grow.


• Vishakam (Day 4): Preparations for the grand Onasadya feast begin, and the markets are bustling with activity.


• Anizham (Day 5): The famous Snake Boat Races (Vallamkali) are held.


• Thriketa (Day 6): Families start gathering for the celebrations.


• Moolam (Day 7): Traditional dance performances like Kaikottikali and Pulikali take place.


• Pooradam (Day 8): The Pookalam reaches its full size, with final touches added.


• Uthradam (Day 9): Known as Onam Eve, families make final preparations for the grand feast.


• Thiruvonam (Day 10): The main day of celebration with the grand Onasadya feast, worship, and festivities.

Cultural Significance of Onam
Onam is not only a harvest festival but also a time to reflect on the values of unity, equality, and generosity. The story of Mahabali’s reign represents a time when everyone was treated equally, and there was no poverty or suffering. The festival symbolises the spirit of togetherness, as families reunite and communities come together to participate in various events, rituals, and games.

Though rooted in Hindu mythology, Onam is celebrated by all communities in Kerala, making it a secular and inclusive festival. The grand feast, Onasadya, is one of the highlights, where families and friends gather to share a meal, reinforcing the bond of unity.

History of Onam
Onam is deeply connected to the legend of King Mahabali, a ruler known for his generosity, kindness, and equality. His reign was marked by prosperity and peace, which eventually caused concern among the gods, fearing Mahabali’s growing influence.