Traditions and Customs

The age-old ritual has not only become invariably synonymous with the festival but also an intrinsic part of the state’s cultural identity.

King Mahabali, who is considered to be one of the greatest kings to have ever ruled Kerala, is believed to ascend to earth from netherworld to meet his subjects.

Apart from being the harvest festival, Onam is celebrated to welcome the legendary demon king Mahabali, who is more popularly known as Maaveli.