Thiruvananthapuram: As Kerala marks Thiruvonam, the final day of its ten-day-long Onam festival, the state is celebrating with temple visits, family gatherings, gift exchanges and the traditional vegetarian feast known as Onasadya.

People are wearing traditional attire and giving new clothes to relatives and friends. The state government has organised a ten-day festival and opened special Onam fair markets to control seasonal price increases. Many Malayalis working outside Kerala have returned home to join the celebrations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended greetings to the people of Kerala.

"Wishing everyone a very happy Onam! May this beautiful festival bring renewed joy, good health and abundant prosperity to all. Onam reflects the timeless heritage and rich traditions of Kerala," Modi said in a post on X.

"This festival is a symbol of unity, hope and cultural pride. May this occasion strengthen the spirit of harmony in our society and deepen our connection with nature," he added.

Leaders from various political parties also shared their greetings, with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath writing on X, “Heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all the food provider farmer companions and the residents of the state on the sacred festival of Onam, which is a symbol of prosperity, harmony, and cultural festivity! May this sacred festival bring a new dawn of happiness, prosperity, and well-being in everyone's life; this is the prayer.”

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge wrote, “Onam is a celebration of life, hope, our legendary past and diverse secular traditions. May its spirit of harvest and renewal, and the purity of the Onam Sadhya, inspire togetherness, prosperity, and fraternity for all.”

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, on X wrote, “Best wishes to everyone on Onam! May this festive season bring happiness, peace and prosperity to all.”

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra wrote, “May Onam's spirit of love, compassion, and unity fill your home and heart. Wishing you and your loved ones a peaceful and joyous Onam!”

Onam is a 10-day-long harvest festival celebrated by the Malayali community in Kerala and globally. This year, Onam festivities began on August 26, and today Kerala is celebrating Thiruvonam, the concluding day of the festival.

All ten days of the celebration of Onam have their own significance. Also, the celebration marks the beginning of the New Year for the people of Kerala, which is popularly known as 'Kolla Varsham'.

Onam celebrations are also associated with values such as equality, justice, and a prosperous society. Societal cohesion, the rulers' accountability to the people, and a more equal society are emphasised in the myths associated with Onam.

Speaking of Hindu mythology, it is believed that King Mahabali, who was the greatest king of Kerala, was banished from his own kingdom after the devas (gods), were envious of King Mahabali's popularity. To end Mahabali's rule, Lord Vishnu took the Vaman avatar (dwarf Brahmin) and tricked the king into giving all his land. After the King agreed to give everything to Vaman, King Mahabali was sent to a lower world, but he secured a boon from Lord Vishnu that he could visit his land once a year. The festival of Onam celebrates the homecoming of King Mahaballi.

Across Kerala, the festival is celebrated with great excitement as people take part in dance, parties, and fun activities. Onam is a significant occasion for merchants as well, who spend lavishly on shopping, food, and decorations. Various delicacies are prepared by the people at home and distributed among friends and relatives. One of the key food items related to the Onam festival is the preparation of Onasadya, a special vegetarian feast.

(With inputs from ANI)