SunCorp

The Harvest Festival, is the most popular festival of Kerala. A festival that celebrates a happy blend of myth and reality, Onam is part of the cultural repertoire of every Malayalee. Year after year, for centuries, the people of Kerala, irrespective of caste, creed or colour, join together to celebrate Onam. The ten-day Onam festival falls in August-September, coinciding with the beginning of the harvest season. According to local belief, in a war that took place between the gods and the demons, the demons won. 

Deeply hurt by the defeat of the gods, Aditi, their mother prayed to Lord Vishnu to destroy Mahabali, the Demon King. Consequently, Lord Vishnu, in the guise of a Brahmin boy, Vamanan, went to Mahabali and asked him to grant him three steps of land. The wish was granted and Vamanan covered the whole land with his two steps and then he came back to the King asking him where can he place the third step. The King to honour his word, offered his head as the third step. Vamanan pushed Mahabali deep down into the earth. Pleased by his honesty and generosity, the lord in turn granted him a wish that he could visit his kingdom and people on a particular day once a year. Preparation of a floral carpet called "Athappookkalam" in front of houses, from the first day of 'Atham' to the tenth day of 'Thiruvonam' is part of the festivities, which is a symbolic gesture to welcome King Mahabali. The state government conducts Tourism Week celebrations in connection with Onam, showcasing the gems of Kerala's culture. Onam resonates with Carnivals, Boat Races, Dance, Music and Feast. A sumptious meal on plantain leaf and the traditional sweet dish of Kerala 'Payasam' etc are served in every house. We at SunCorp wish all Malayalees a very Happy Onam