Onam is a harvesting festival, which is celebrated by the state people, just like Thanksgiving. The uniqueness is the ideology behind this festival; King Mahabali, who is remembered fondly as great and benevolent, and the people during his regime. There was no need of a court or jail in modern terms, and they enjoyed peace and harmony at its optimum.
Mahabali’s rule, in prehistoric era, is considered the Golden Era of Kerala. Mahabali, though a great king, was bent upon establishing a new world order, where Asuras (powerful superhuman demigods with good and bad qualities) were supposed to take over the functions end authority of the Devas (God as per Hindu culture). As it was against the rules of nature and laws of karma, Lord Vishnu, who presides over balance in nature, had to depose him. He only took away his material kingdom in a tactical way by pushing him to Patal, which is the lowest part of earth, but he was allowed to visit his people once every year, during Onam festival.
The name Mahabali itself means Great Sacrifice. Mahabali fulfilled his name as the great martyr for the sake of truth.
The beauty of the festival lies in its secular fabric. People of all religions, castes and communities celebrate the festival with equal joy and verve.
Onam with Weyburn’s Malayalee Community was really attractive and artistic. All the participants contributed enormously to make the event a colorful display of tradition and friendly cheer. The celebration started in the mid-morning with the customary Onapookkalam (Floral Carpet) arrangements and the welcoming of guests Marcel Roy, Mayor of Weyburn, Fr. Francis Plapparambil, Vicar of St. Vincent De Paul Roman Catholic Church Weyburn and Mahabali.
The traditional welcome of the dignitaries was done by the children, holding Thaalapoli (a tray with a lamp) on either side. The celebration continued with evocative Onam music, cultural dance, songs and the delicious Onam sadhya (Onam banquet), and conventional Onam games.
There were fun games for all age groups and genders. Various sports and a tug of war enhanced the enjoyment. Prizes and mementos were distributed to the competition winners and to all the children at the end.
“May Onam bring you the brightest and choicest happiness and love you have ever wished for. Wishing you a very happy Onam,” said Mathew.
