Mahabali holds significance for several reasons:
Just Ruler: In Kerala, he’s revered as the ideal king. His reign was prosperous, fair, and free from suffering. He’s seen as a symbol of good governance.
Generosity: Mahabali was known for his immense generosity. The story of Onam revolves around him granting a seemingly small wish (three paces of land) that Vishnu used to trick him.
Read More Onam 2024 – Thiruvonam
Devotion: Despite being tricked, Mahabali remained a devotee of Vishnu. He was even granted a blessing to return to his people every year.
Onam Festival: The legend of Mahabali (Onathappan Variations Mahabali) is central to the Onam festival, a major celebration in Kerala. It’s a time of feasting, homecoming, and celebrating the return of the beloved king.
Concept of Karma: The story of Mahabali can be interpreted as highlighting the concept of karma. Even a good king faces consequences for his actions.
Onathappan Variations Mahabali s importance transcends a simple mythological figure. He represents ideals of good governance, generosity, and the enduring connection between a king and his people.
Onam Celebration Kerala with Onathappan
- A clay pyramid structure with four faces and a flat top used during Onam celebrations symbolizes Thrikkakara Appan or Thrikakkarappan.
- This unique structure represents Vamana, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
- For some people the pyramid represents both King Maveli and Vishnu. It is also referred as Onathappan.
- Thrikkakarappan is the presiding deity in the famous Thrikakkara temple in Ernakulam District of Kerala and is closely associated with the Onam myth.
