Onam celebrates the homecoming of the legendary King Mahabali. Mahabali, despite being a demon king, was said to be generous and benevolent. His rule is likened to the golden era. Because of this, his return every year is so widely celebrated. It is said that Mahabali defeated the gods and took over the three worlds. This made gods resent him and urge Lord Vishnu to help them in their fight against the demon king. Mahabali was a devotee of Lord Vishnu and the god found it difficult to take sides in the battle.
Vishnu, in his Vamana (poor Brahmin) avatar, visited Mahabali. He made the king agree to his wish. Vamana asked for property rights over a piece of land that measures “three paces”. Mahabali agreed to this wish. As the legend goes, no sooner were the three footsteps granted, the young Vamana assumed a gigantic form known as Trivikrama and with the first step of his foot, measured the whole earth. Then with the second step of his foot, he measured the whole sky. These two steps covered the whole of Mahabali’s kingdom, the earth and the sky. Vamana then asked the king as to where he should place his third step. King Maha Bali joyfully offered his head for the third step in utter devotion and surrender.
Impressed by his gesture, Lord Vishnu allowed him to return to Earth once every year. This homecoming is celebrated as Onam.
Onam Celebration at Pitchandikulam Forest
On 29th of August, our forest came alive with the vibrant colors of Kerala, as we celebrated the festival of Onam. Some staff from Nadukuppam also joined us, donning kasavu sarees that are traditional golden border sarees that represent the prosperity of the past.
One of the elements of the event was a floral bed, where we meticulously arranged flowers in a kaleidoscope of colors. We also savored a special midday meal served on fresh banana leaves, a gastronomic journey through Kerala’s flavors. Yet, it was the camaraderie, laughter, and shared stories that truly filled our hearts. We took turns on decorated swings adorned with fragrant garlands. As the sun set, we felt grateful for the beauty of diversity and the unity that festivals like Onam bring to our lives. We had not just celebrated a festival; we had celebrated the unifying power of shared experiences, love, and culture.
Pitchandikulam Forest, Auroville 