When is Onam 2025 and why is this grand festival celebrated

Every year Kerala lights up with its most cherished festival Onam. It is not only a symbol of devotion but also of culture, unity and prosperity. Onam commemorates Lord Vishnu’s Vamana Avatar and the annual homecoming of King Mahabali. According to tradition Mahabali returns to meet his people during these ten days and Kerala welcomes him with colors feasts dances and rituals.

Onam 2025 will begin on Tuesday 26 August 2025 with Atham Nakshatra and end on Friday 5 September 2025 with Thiruvonam Nakshatra.

Onam 2025: Day-wise calendar

Day	Date	Significance	Traditions
Day 1 - Atham	26 August 2025, Tuesday	Beginning	Athachamayam procession, first pookalam design, cultural performances
Day 2 - Chithira	27 August 2025, Wednesday	Preparations	Expansion of pookalam, shopping, household readiness
Day 3 - Chodhi (Onnakodi)	28 August 2025, Thursday	New attire	Gifts exchanged, traditional clothes worn, festive dances
Day 4 - Vishakam	29 August 2025, Friday	Culinary start	Preparations of pickles, papads and dishes for Sadya
Day 5 - Anizham (Vallam Kali)	30 August 2025, Saturday	Boat race	Famous snake boat race with cheering crowds
Day 6 - Thriketta	31 August 2025, Sunday	Social bonding	Family gatherings, decorations and cultural events
Day 7 - Moolam (Onasadya)	1 September 2025, Monday	Feast	Sadya first served in temples, Pulikali and Kaikottukali dances
Day 8 - Pooradam	2 September 2025, Tuesday	Welcoming	Idols of Mahabali and Vamana installed in homes
Day 9 - Uthradam	4 September 2025, Thursday	Preparations	Rituals and prayers to welcome Mahabali
Day 10 - Thiruvonam	5 September 2025, Friday	Main festival	Wearing new clothes, Onasadya feast, fireworks and traditional dances

Onasadya: The grand feast on banana leaves

Onasadya is the heart of Onam celebrations. Served on banana leaves it consists of more than 20 traditional dishes.

Main items in Onasadya:

• Sambar
• Avial (mixed vegetables)
• Olan
• Thoran
• Erissery
• Pachadi
• Inji curry (ginger chutney)
• Pickles
• Pappadam
• Payasam (sweet pudding)

It is more than food. It is a symbol of abundance and togetherness.

Vallam Kali: The thrilling snake boat race

On the fifth day during Anizham Nakshatra, Kerala witnesses Vallam Kali, the grand snake boat race. Hundreds of oarsmen row in rhythm singing traditional boat songs as thousands of spectators cheer from riverbanks. It is not just a competition but a spectacle of discipline, unity and strength.

Pookalam and decorations

Courtyards glow with colorful Pookalam, the floral rangoli made every day of Onam. With each day more flowers are added making it richer and more beautiful. It is both a symbol of beauty and a gesture of welcome to King Mahabali.

Importance of Onam

Onam is more than a festival. It is Kerala’s identity. Families reunite, homes sparkle, art and culture thrive and communities come together in joy. It is a reminder that unity and tradition make life more fulfilling.

FAQs

Q1. When will Onam 2025 be celebrated?
A1. Onam will be celebrated from 26 August 2025 to 5 September 2025.

Q2. Which is the most important day of Onam?
A2. Thiruvonam on 5 September 2025 is the main day of the festival with Onasadya and major celebrations.

Q3. What is special about Onasadya?
A3. It is a traditional feast served on banana leaves with over 20 dishes.

Q4. Why is Vallam Kali special?
A4. It is the thrilling snake boat race symbolizing teamwork and discipline.

Q5. What is the significance of Pookalam?
A5. Pookalam is a floral rangoli that welcomes Mahabali and symbolizes cultural beauty and harmony.