Keralites celebrating Thiru Onam, most auspicious day of Onam

Keralites across the globe are celebrating Thiru Onam on wednesday. Thiru Onam celebrations began with Ona Pookkalam, the traditional floral carpet made to welcome the legendary King Mahabali. This harvest festival is celebrated by Keralites irrespective of caste and religion. Special poojas are being held at temples, including the hill shrine of Sabarimala, Aranmula and Guruvayur. Ona Sadya, the traditional Kerala feast, is another major attraction of Thiru Onam. Thousands of cultural programmes and traditional games will be held across Keralam.Heavy rush is being experienced at temples across the state, despite the rain.

#WATCH | Thrissur, Keralam | Heavy rush of devotees at Guruvayur Temple on the day of Thiruvonam, the most significant day of the 10-day Onam festival

Special arrangements have been made to facilitate darshan for all devotees visiting the temple. Priority is being given to… pic.twitter.com/TKRvBuhcVW

— ANI (@ANI) August 26, 2026

President Droupadi Murmu has extended greetings and best wishes to all citizens, especially the people of Keralam living in India and abroad. In her message, President Murmu noted that Onam is an occasion to express gratitude to nature on the arrival of the new harvest.She added that the festival celebrates India’s rich culture and spirit of brotherhood, promoting unity in diversity. The President mentioned that Boat races, folk dances, music and sports are important traditions associated with this festival, which showcase the culture and values of Keralam.
Vice President C P Radhakrishnan has extended greetings to everyone on the occasion of Onam. Sharing a social media post, the Vice President prayed that this cherished festival, which reflects Keralam’s rich cultural heritage and timeless traditions, fill every home with happiness, good health and prosperity. Radhakrishnan wished that the spirit of Onam strengthen harmony, unity and hope in the society.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended greetings to the countrymen on the occasion of Onam. Sharing a social media post, the Prime Minister said that the vibrant festival is celebrated all over the world with great enthusiasm. Modi wished that this festival further empowers the spirit of happiness, togetherness, and prosperity.
Onam is celebrated over ten days, each with its own significance. The festivities begin with Atham, marked by the creation of the first layer of Pookkalam using yellow flowers. Chithira, the second day, sees the addition of more layers to the Pookkalam, while Chothi involves the purchase of new clothes and jewelry for loved ones. Vishakam marks the start of the grand Onasadya feast preparations, and Anizham is famous for the Vallamkali (boat race) on the Pamba River. Thriketta involves temple visits and the embellishment of Pookkalam with fresh blooms.