Onam is one of the most revered and vibrant festivals celebrated in Kerala, often referred to as “God’s own country.” This annual festival, deeply rooted in the traditions and culture of the Malayali community, transcends geographical and cultural boundaries, making it a celebration of universal joy and unity. Onam is a time when Kerala is adorned with the colors of festivities, resonating with the sounds of trumpets, drums, and the excitement of boat races. The festival is marked by a rich tapestry of activities including traditional dances, art, music, and the preparation of the elaborate and delicious Onasadya feast.
Onam 2024 promises to be a grand spectacle, beginning on 6th September and culminating on 17th September, with the main day, Thiruvonam, falling on 15th September. The festival coincides with the month of Chingam in the Malayalam calendar and typically overlaps with August and September in the Gregorian calendar. It is during this time that Kerala becomes a hub of cultural celebrations, attracting people from all walks of life to partake in the festivities.
The origins of Onam are steeped in the rich mythology of Hinduism, particularly the legend of King Mahabali, a benevolent ruler who once ruled over the three worlds. According to the myth, Mahabali’s reign was marked by prosperity and happiness, which led the Devas (Gods) to feel threatened by his growing influence. They sought the help of Lord Vishnu, who, despite acknowledging Mahabali’s virtues, decided to test his devotion. Vishnu took on the form of a dwarf, Vamana, and approached Mahabali during a Yajna (sacred ritual). Vamana asked for three paces of land, which Mahabali granted, only to see Vamana expand and cover the earth, the skies, and finally place his third step on Mahabali himself, sending him to the netherworld. However, Mahabali’s devotion touched Vishnu, who granted him the boon of visiting his land and people once a year, a visit that is celebrated as Onam.
Onam is not just a festival but a symbol of Kerala’s cultural heritage, where tradition and myth blend to create a celebration that is as much about community and togetherness as it is about joy and festivity. The GK questions on Onam 2024 delve into this fascinating festival, exploring its history, rituals, and significance, providing a comprehensive understanding of why Onam remains an integral part of Kerala’s identity.
Also Check: Onam Program Names
GK Questions & Answers on Onam 2024
Ques. What is Onam?
Answer: Onam is a traditional festival celebrated by the Malayali community, originating from Kerala, India.
Ques. Which state is known as the place of origin for Onam?
Answer: Kerala.
Ques. What is the significance of Onam in Hindu mythology?
Answer: Onam marks the annual visit of King Mahabali to Kerala, as a symbol of his devotion and the blessing of Lord Vishnu.
Ques. Onam 2024 will begin on which date?
Answer: Onam 2024 will begin on 6 September 2024.
Ques. On which date is Thiruvonam, the main day of Onam, celebrated in 2024?
Answer: Thiruvonam is celebrated on 15 September 2024.
Ques. Which month in the Malayalam calendar does Onam fall under?
Answer: Onam falls under the month of Chingam in the Malayalam calendar.
Ques. Which deity is associated with the legend of Onam?
Answer: Lord Vishnu, in the form of Vamana.
Ques. What is the traditional floral decoration made during Onam called?
Answer: Pookalam.
Ques. What is the traditional feast served during Onam known as?
Answer: Onasadya.
Ques. How many days is Onam traditionally celebrated?
Answer: Onam is traditionally celebrated for 10 days.
Ques. What is the name of the procession that marks the beginning of Onam?
Answer: Athachamayam.
Ques. Which traditional dance form is popularly performed by women during Onam?
Answer: Thiruvathirakali.
Ques. What is the famous boat race associated with Onam called?
Answer: Vallamkali or Snake Boat Race.
Ques. Which festival day is known as the First Onam in 2024?
Answer: Uthradam, celebrated on 14 September 2024.
Ques. What is the term used for the new clothes worn during Onam?
Answer: Onakkodi.
Do Check: State-Wise Indian Festival Name List 2024
Ques. What is the Pookalam made of on the first day of Onam, known as Atham?
Answer: The Pookalam, known as Athapoo, is made of yellow petals.
Ques. Which art form performed during Onam involves dancers painted as tigers?
Answer: Pulikali.
Ques. What is the main ingredient of the traditional feast Onasadya?
Answer: Rice is the main ingredient.
Ques. Which district in Kerala is famous for the dance form Kummattikali during Onam?
Answer: Thrissur district.
Ques. On which day of Onam does the Vallamkali boat race usually take place?
Answer: Anizham, the fifth day of Onam.
Ques. What is the ritual performed with clay statues on the day of Pooradam?
Answer: The ritual of installing clay statues of Mahabali and Vamana, known as Onathappam.
Ques. Which two instruments are commonly used during the Pulikali dance?
Answer: Chenda and Thakil.
Ques. Which day marks the end of the main Onam celebrations?
Answer: Thiruvonam marks the end of the main Onam celebrations.
Ques. What is the swing used during Onam celebrations called?
Answer: Onapattinam.
Ques. How many dishes are typically served in an Onasadya?
Answer: Typically, 26 to 30 dishes are served.
Ques. What is the traditional song sung during Vallamkali?
Answer: Vachipaatu.
Ques. Which day of Onam is considered the most auspicious for Onasadya preparations?
Answer: Vishakam.
Ques. What is the importance of the Palmyra tree in Onam celebrations?
Answer: It symbolizes Mahabali’s sacrifice and is burned down to ashes.
Ques. Which flowers are added to the Pookalam on the second day, Chithira?
Answer: Orange and creamy yellow flowers.
Ques. Which custom is performed in certain rural areas during Onam with a swing?
Answer: Young men and women sing Onapaatu and rock one another on swings as a form of merrymaking.
Ques. What is the dance form that involves performers circling around a lamp during Onam?
Answer: Onam Kali.
Also Check: Famous Festivals of India
Ques. Which day of Onam is associated with the installation of clay statues of Mahabali and Vamana?
Answer: Pooradam.
Ques. What is the main theme of Onam celebrations?
Answer: The homecoming of King Mahabali and the celebration of prosperity and unity.
Ques. Which festival day is known as the Second Onam in 2024?
Answer: Thiruvonam, the main day, is the Second Onam.
Ques. How do Malayalis welcome King Mahabali during Onam?
Answer: By decorating their homes with Pookalam and preparing Onasadya.
Ques. Which region’s markets become the busiest during Onam, especially on Vishakam?
Answer: Markets across Kerala.
Ques. What is the ritual performed with the clay statues after the Onam celebrations?
Answer: The clay statues are immersed in the river or sea.
Ques. What is the other name for the Pulikali dance?
Answer: Kaduvakali.
Ques. Which Onam dance form involves performers wearing colourful masks?
Answer: Kummattikali.
Ques. What does Onam symbolize in a broader cultural sense?
Answer: Onam symbolizes the spirit of unity, harmony, and the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.
Ques. Which day marks the start of the Pookalam tradition during Onam?
Answer: Atham, the first day of Onam.
