Malayalis all over the world celebrate Onam today. It is the second Onam celebration amid the Covid pandemic. Onam is considered as a harmonious festival that erases all the boundaries drawn by religion, caste and creed. But this Onam is celebrated within the houses as the threat of covid still persists. Even though the celebrations have been limited this year, in the hearts of Malayalis Onam has not lost its glory.
Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh said, “It is a matter of happiness that Onam festival is being celebrated virtually on August 21 this year with various cultural programs by United Malayalee Association, a leading Malayalee association of the city.”
Onam is the State festival of Kerala. It is a festival of happiness, peace and brotherhood. This festival is celebrated in memory of the days when King Mahabali ruled in Kerala. It is believed that every year on this day King Mahabali comes to his kingdom to meet his people. On this day the people of Kerala decorate their homes, put on new clothes, prepare dishes and welcome their king Mahabali (Maveli) with great enthusiasm and joy. On this auspicious occasion of Onam, I extend my warm greetings to all Keralites.
Malayalis never fail to enjoy Onam day wherever they are. Massive celebrations and competitions are absent this Onam, still happiness and prosperity visit in each house on this Onam day. United Malayalee Association, a prominent socio-cultural organization of the city, celebrated the festival of Onam. Most of the activities were held online and people participated enthusiastically.