Onam

Onam is the principal festival of the state of Kerala. It is an unusual festival, in the sense that it reveres the memory of a local demon king, Mahabali, who was ousted from his kingdom by Lord Vishnu. So attached was the king to his country and subjects, that he asked for and was granted permisssion to return once a year. Onam is considered to be the day when the king returns to his kingdom. Houses are cleaned and floral decorations put up to welcome the beloved ruler. Snake boats manned by around a hundred oarsmen each, rowing to the rhythms of cymbals and drums, race in thrilling contests at Aranmula, Champakulam and Kottayam in Kerala. In Trichur, a vibrant procession with resplendently caparisoned elephants is taken out.