Art & Culture 18 August 2026
10-Day Onam Festival Begins in Kerala
Why in the News?
The 10-day major harvest festival of South India, 'Onam', commenced on August 16, 2026 (Atham) in Kerala. The main celebration of the festival, 'Thiruvonam', will be observed on August 26, 2026.
Key Features / Major Points:
Mythological Significance: The festival commemorates the annual homecoming of the righteous King Mahabali to meet his subjects and is associated with the 'Vamana Avatar' of Lord Vishnu.
Malayalam Calendar: Onam is celebrated during 'Chingam', which is the first month of the traditional Malayalam calendar.
Major Attractions: Creating floral carpets (Pookkalam) at the entrance of homes, the grand traditional feast (Onasadya), and various cultural performances.
Key Dates of Onam 2026:
Atham (August 16, 2026) -> Start of Onam & commencement of Pookkalam making
Uthradom (August 25, 2026) -> First Onam (Major preparations for the festival)
Thiruvonam (August 26, 2026) -> Main Onam (Welcoming King Mahabali and grand celebrations)
Static GK Facts:
Current Chief Minister of Kerala: V.D. Satheesan
Current Governor of Kerala: Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar
Classical Dances of Kerala: Kathakali, Mohiniyattam
Nehru Trophy Boat Race (Vallamkali): The famous snake boat race held during the Onam season on Punnamada Lake, Kerala.
One-Liner Quiz (All Competitive Exams):
Onam is primarily a 10-day harvest festival celebrated in which Indian state?
Answer: Kerala
The Onam festival is associated with which avatar of Lord Vishnu?
Answer: Vamana Avatar