When is Onam 2026 and how is it celebrated in Kerala, the UAE and around the world?

Onam is a harvest festival celebrated in the South Indian state of Kerala and among Malayali communities across the globe, including the UAE. This year, celebrations will take place from August 16 and culminate on August 26, with Thiruvonam being the key date of the festival. The Kerala government designated Onam as an official holiday in 1961.

The festival honors the mythical king Mahabali, who is considered a great ruler in Hindu tradition. Legend has it that Mahabali was sent to the underworld by lord Vishnu or Vamana, but was allowed to visit his people once a year, leading to the establishment of Onam. Kerala's Kochi region, specifically the Thrikkakara temple, holds special significance during the festival.

A central aspect of Onam is the Onam sadhya, a grand vegetarian feast served on banana leaves. Nine to 30-plus dishes are typically prepared, including curries, dal, pickles, poppadoms, and banana chips. While the sadhya is traditionally served on Thiru Onam, it may be adapted to suit local schedules in some regions outside Kerala, such as the UAE, where it is often served on multiple days during the festival.

The festival includes various performances and events, such as the snake boat race, Kummatti Kali dance, and Theyyam performances. Flower arrangements called pookkalam are placed around homes and community areas to welcome king Mahabali. People also dress in traditional attire, like the cream-colored kasavu with a gold border for women and the traditional mundu for men.

Additionally, lamps are lit, and new clothes are purchased during this time. After Onam, the pookkalam arrangements are often placed in nearby water bodies.