Onam is one of the most cherished and vibrant festivals celebrated in the southern state of Kerala. A cultural spectacle that spans ten days, Onam is a joyous tribute to Kerala's rich heritage, agricultural abundance, and the legendary homecoming of King Mahabali. With vibrant floral decorations, traditional feasts, boat races, and dance performances, the Onam festival blends mythology, devotion, and celebration. If you're wondering when is Onam 2025, what rituals are performed, and how it's celebrated, this guide is for you.
Featured collection
0.043Ct Moissanite Princess Cut Solitaire Pendant
0.10Ct Moissanite Hollow Star Stud Earrings
0.17Ct Moissanite Celestial Starburst Pendant
0.18Ct Moissanite Modern Orbit Hoop Earrings
When Is Onam 2025 And Shubh Muhurat?
In 2025, the Onam festival will be celebrated from Tuesday, August 26, 2025 to Friday, September 5, 2025, with various events and rituals taking place across the ten-day period.
The most important day — Thiruvonam — falls on Wednesday, September 3, 2025. Thiruvonam Nakshatram begins at 11:06 AM on September 2 and ends at 1:39 PM on September 3, 2025. Most of the major rituals and feasting happen on Thiruvonam day, making it the highlight of the celebration.
What is Onam?
Onam is a harvest festival deeply rooted in Kerala’s culture and traditions. It marks the return of King Mahabali, the mythical ruler whose reign is believed to have brought about prosperity and happiness. The festival is celebrated with great devotion and is a time for Keralites to express gratitude for the year's bounty.
Onam 2025: History And Significance
The legend behind Onam tells the story of the virtuous demon King Mahabali who was loved by his people. The gods, fearing his growing power, sought the help of Lord Vishnu. Disguised as a Brahmin boy, Vamana, Vishnu asked Mahabali for three paces of land. With each step, Vamana covered the earth, the sky, and finally placed his foot on Mahabali’s head, pushing him to the netherworld. However, impressed by Mahabali’s devotion, Lord Vishnu granted him a wish — to visit his people once every year. Onam commemorates this annual return.
Where is Onam Celebrated?
Onam is primarily celebrated in Kerala, but Keralites across the globe observe it with equal enthusiasm. Whether in Mumbai, Dubai, or New York, Malayalis take pride in preserving their customs and traditions, making Onam a global cultural festival.
What Happens During the Onam Festival?
Onam celebrations span ten days and include various traditional events that reflect Kerala's spirit and cultural richness:
1. Attachamayam
The festival kicks off with a grand procession called Attachamayam in Tripunithura. With elephants, traditional music, art forms, and dancers, it's a vibrant start to Onam.
2. Pookalam
Beautiful floral arrangements called Pookalams are created daily outside homes. These intricate flower carpets grow more elaborate each day until Thiruvonam.
3. Traditional Dances
Various classical and folk dances are performed, such as Thiruvathira, Kathakali, and Pulikali (tiger dance), adding artistic expression to the celebrations.
4. Vallamkali
The iconic snake boat race, or Vallamkali, is a thrilling event watched by thousands. Teams row traditional boats in synchronization, reflecting unity and strength.
5. Onasadya
Onasadya is the grand vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf with over 20 dishes. It includes delicacies like avial, sambar, rasam, olan, payasam, and more. It is one of the most anticipated aspects of the festival.
What are the ten days of Onam in 2025?
Each day leading to Thiruvonam has its own significance:
Day 1: Atham
The first day when King Mahabali begins his journey. People start making Pookalams and houses are cleaned.
Day 2: Chithira
More flowers are added to the Pookalam, and the design becomes more elaborate.
Day 3: Chodhi
Shopping begins, and families start preparing traditional outfits and ornaments.
Day 4: Vishakam
Markets bustle with people buying items for Onasadya. Cooking competitions are held in some areas.
Day 5: Anizham
Preparations for Vallamkali (boat race) begin in full swing.
Day 6: Thriketta
Family gatherings start happening, and people visit each other's homes.
Day 7: Moolam
Temples start serving special Onam meals; some early festivities begin.
Day 8: Pooradam
Statues of Mahabali and Vishnu are installed in households and decorated.
Day 9: Uthradam
Known as Onnam Onam or the first Onam, it is considered an auspicious day with major food preparations.
Day 10: Thiruvonam
The main festival day. Pookalams are at their most beautiful, Onasadya is served, and prayers are offered to Mahabali.
Onam 2025: Rituals and How it is celebrated?
- Early Morning Bath and prayers at home or temples
- Wearing new traditional attire — kasavu saree for women and mundu for men
- Preparing and serving the elaborate Onasadya
- Participating in community events, games, and dances
- Visiting relatives and exchanging festive greetings
- Decorating homes with Pookalam and lighting lamps
For many women and girls, this is also the time to adorn themselves with elegant accessories. Festive outfits are beautifully complemented with sterling silver rings, 925 silver earrings, and sterling silver pendants that enhance the traditional look.
Is It A Bank Holiday On Onam?
Yes, Thiruvonam (September 3, 2025) is a public and bank holiday in Kerala. Many schools, colleges, and offices remain closed on the main day of Onam. Uthradam and the following day, Avittam, may also be observed as partial holidays in some institutions.
Onam 2025: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the main activities during Onam?
The main activities include decorating with Pookalam, preparing the Onasadya, watching or participating in Vallamkali, wearing traditional attire, and enjoying folk performances. It's also a great time to shop for ethnic jewellery such as sterling silver necklaces and silver anklets for ladies.
What is the significance of Onam?
Onam symbolizes the return of King Mahabali and is a celebration of equality, prosperity, and tradition. It reminds people of a time of happiness and communal harmony.
What is the importance of Onam festival?
It is important for cultural, spiritual, and social reasons. It unites people of all religions and communities in Kerala to celebrate the state's heritage and bountiful harvest.
What is Onam celebrated for?
Onam is celebrated to welcome King Mahabali and to express gratitude for the harvest. It reflects the joy of abundance and the values of humility, devotion, and unity.
Whether you're in Kerala or celebrating from afar, Onam is a beautiful reminder of cultural pride, family unity, and festive joy. As you prepare for Onam 2025, embrace tradition with grace — from your Pookalam to your silver jewellery, make it a celebration to remember!