The time for the grand festivities of Onam is fast approaching. Thiruvonam in 2023 will be celebrated on 29th August 2023, and it promises to be a day filled with joy, cultural splendor, and merriment.
Onam is one of the most significant festivals celebrated in Kerala, India. It is a ten-day-long harvest festival that marks the homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali. This cultural extravaganza is observed with great enthusiasm and is a time of joy and togetherness for the people of Kerala. Let’s delve into the complete Onam dates for 2023 to know more about this vibrant and colorful festival.
Onam Festival Dates for 2023
The Onam festival in 2023 is a highly anticipated event for the people of Kerala. It spans over ten days, and each day holds a special significance and excitement. Let’s take a closer look at the dates and their corresponding celebrations during this joyous occasion:
- 1. Atham (20th August 2023): The first day of Onam, Atham, marks the beginning of the festivities. It is considered an auspicious day when people clean their homes and decorate them with intricate floral arrangements called “Pookalam.” The atmosphere becomes vibrant as the preparations for the grand celebration begin.
- 2. Chithira (21st August 2023): On the second day, Chithira, the enthusiasm continues to build up. People engage in various cultural activities, and communities come together to organize events and competitions that showcase their traditions and talents.
- 3. Chothi (22nd August 2023): Chothi is another day of joy and merriment, where the excitement grows as Thiruvonam approaches. People actively participate in creating larger and more elaborate Pookalams, adding to the visual splendor of the festival.
- 4. Vishakam (23rd August 2023): Vishakam brings with it a sense of anticipation as the celebrations intensify. More cultural events, dance performances, and traditional art forms are organized to engage the audience and immerse them in the rich culture of Kerala.
- 5. Anizham (24th August 2023): On the fifth day, Anizham, the Onam Sadya takes center stage. It is a grand feast comprising a wide variety of vegetarian dishes served on banana leaves. Families and friends come together to enjoy this sumptuous and flavorsome meal.
- 6. Thriketa (25th August 2023): Thriketa marks another day of festivities when the enthusiasm reaches a new high. Colorful processions, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Kerala, fill the streets, and people participate in various traditional games and activities.
- 7. Moolam (26th August 2023): On the seventh day, Moolam, the excitement continues with various cultural performances and competitions. One of the most captivating events is the traditional Snake Boat Race (Vallamkali), where skilled rowers compete with great vigor and spirit.
- 8. Pooradam (27th August 2023): Pooradam brings an air of excitement and anticipation as Thiruvonam draws nearer. People get engrossed in last-minute shopping and preparations for the grand celebration.
- 9. Uthradam (28th August 2023): The day before Thiruvonam, Uthradam, is filled with excitement and joy as people eagerly await the grand homecoming of King Mahabali. Homes are beautifully decorated, and traditional rituals are performed to welcome the beloved king.
- 10. Thiruvonam (29th August 2023): Thiruvonam, the main day of Onam, is the pinnacle of the celebrations. People wake up early, take a bath, and offer prayers to welcome King Mahabali. The day is filled with cultural events, dances, music, and the famous Puli Kali (Tiger Dance) performance.
- 11. Avittom (30th August 2023): The day after Thiruvonam, Avittom, is marked by the continuation of cultural programs and events. People continue to visit each other’s homes to exchange greetings and gifts.
- 12. Chathayam (31st August 2023): The final day of the festival, Chathayam, brings the ten-day-long celebration to a close. It is a day of reflection, gratitude, and togetherness, where people express their love for one another and cherish the memories of a memorable Onam.
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Conclusion
Onam is not just a festival; it is an embodiment of Kerala’s rich culture, unity, and traditions. The ten days of celebrations bring together people from all walks of life to revel in the spirit of togetherness and joy. So, mark your calendars and get ready to be a part of the vibrant and heartwarming celebration of Thiruvonam in 2023.