The Story Of Onam

Do you know the story of Onam, one of the biggest festivals in Kerala (a state in Southern India)? It is a 10-day festival, and usually marks the beginning of the harvest season. It is celebrated widely among people of all faiths in Kerala and across the world.
As the Hindu legend goes, there was once a very kind and devotional king called Mahabali. He successfully conquered the lands by defeating all the other Devas (Gods). The other Devas were jealous and asked Lord Vishnu for his support against Mahabali. Vishnu refused to join the war but decided to test Mahabali's devotion to his people (which he had heard much about!).
After his great victory, Mahabali decided to perform a Yajna (ceremony of sacrifice). This involved fulfilling any requests he received during that time. Using this opportunity, Lord Vishnu changed into a dwarf, called himself Vamana, and approached Mahabali. He requested Mahabali for a piece of land equal to 3 times his foot size! Puzzled by the small request but determined to fulfill any request that came his way from his people, Mahabali agreed.
Suddenly, in that very moment, Vamana began to grow, and kept growing! His first two steps covered all of Mahabali's region, as well as the sky. As there was no other space left, Mahabali graciously offered himself and so Vishnu stepped on him, leading to Mahabali's death.
Greatly impressed by Mahabali's devotion and sacrifice, Vishnu accepted that Mahabali truly had the biggest heart. He therefore granted Mahabali a special boon: he could visit the lands he had ruled once a year forever.
As a result, every year at the beginning of harvest season, the people of Kerala prepare for Mahabali as he comes to visit them on Thiruvonam (which falls within the 10-day festival). Traditions involve creating 'flower carpets' (designs or patterns on the floor with flowers), traditional dance performances of Kathakali and Thiruvathirakali and 'snake boat races' (the racing of snake-shaped boats). Moreover, the 'sadya' (feast) forms a major part of Thiruvonam, as the people have a 9-course meal served on a banana leaf!