The Significance of Wearing White and Gold on Onam

Onam is a significant Indian festival celebrated in the state of Kerala. This harvest festival has been associated with various customs and cultural traditions. The traditional attire worn on the Onam festival by men is called "Kasavu Mundu", and adorned by women is called "Kasavu Saree." These clothes are usually off-white in colour and have golden borders.

The Onam significance of wearing white and gold is immense, as the colours represent peace, spirituality and harmony. This combination of gold and white is considered auspicious and symbolises purity, elegance and prosperity. Wearing white and gold during Onam traditions adheres to cultural customs and creates a celebratory atmosphere.

Understanding the Significance of Onam

To understand the Onam significance, one must first learn the story of the legendary King Mahabali. As per the story, Lord Vishnu once disguised as a Brahmin dwarf named Vamana and asked for three paces of land from the King. And Mahabali, who was known for his magnanimity, agreed. Surprisingly, the dwarf grew in size, covering the entire universe in just three steps. As a show of his humility, Mahabali offered his own head for the third step. 

Since Lord Vishnu got Impressed by Mahabali's selflessness, he granted him a boon. And Mahabali's only wish was to visit his kingdom and people once a year. This request was granted, and the annual visit became a time of joy known as the Onam celebration.

Why Men and Women Wear White and Gold on Onam?

The importance of wearing white and gold on Onam holds deep cultural and religious significance. White represents purity and is associated with new beginnings. Besides, gold is the colour of success, achievement and triumph. Hence, wearing white is commonly associated with cultural symbolism and the importance of Onam.

1. Symbolises Purity, Peace, and Cleanliness

White symbolises purity, peace and cleanliness in Indian culture and represents a fresh start. On Onam, people strive to establish a pure and harmonious atmosphere in their homes and communities. Hence, wearing white is commonly associated with cultural symbolism and Onam significance.

2. White and Gold Create an Ambience of Abundance and Prosperity

The combination of white and gold is believed to create a vibrant and celebratory ambience. Gold is associated with wealth, abundance and prosperity. The golden border on the white attires such as a white Onam saree adds an elegant touch, enhancing the festive spirits.

3. To Celebrate Cultural Identity

Onam is a time when people celebrate their cultural heritage and showcase their pride through Kerala's traditions. Men and women wearing white and gold demonstrate their cultural identity, which plays a significant role in the Onam celebration.

4. To Highlight the Importance of Traditional Attire

The harvest festival of Onam represents abundance, prosperity, and togetherness. This showcases the Onam significance and highlights the importance of traditional attires. Hence, the Onam festivities are incomplete without shopping for new Onam attire.

The Bottom Line

1. Onam is a major cultural festival in South India; wearing traditional clothes is integral to Onam celebration. A wide range of these attires are available in unique styles, designs, and patterns.

2. The traditional Onam attire for men is called "Kasavu Mundu," while for women, it is called "Kasavu Saree" or Onam saree. White and gold colours are significant in the Onam festival as they represent peace, spirituality, purity, elegance, and prosperity.

3. Wearing white and gold on Onam showcases cultural identity and contributes to the unity and beauty of the festival.

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FAQs on Onam Significance

Onam is celebrated for how many days?

Onam is celebrated for a span of ten days. Each day carries special rituals and cultural events that contribute to the vibrant and joyous spirit of the Onam celebration.

Why Onam is celebrated for 10 days?

Onam is celebrated for ten days to honour the legendary King Mahabali's annual visit to his kingdom. Each day represents a phase of his return and is celebrated with immense joy and love.

Onam is celebrated in which state?

Onam is celebrated in the state of Kerala, located in the southern part of India. It is a significant cultural festival for the people of Kerala, where elaborate rituals take place for 10 days of Onam celebration.

Onam is celebrated in which month?

Onam is celebrated in the month of Chingam, the first month of the Malayalam calendar, which corresponds to August and September. It is a 10-day celebration that includes various rituals, festivities and joy.

What is the most important thing in Onam?

The importance of Onam can be described by its rich history, traditions and cultural significance. Ultimately, it is a harvest festival that brings feelings of pride and joy to the people of Kerala and gives them an opportunity to come together and celebrate this beautiful festival.

What is the essence of Onam?

The essence of Onam or Onam significance lies in celebrating unity, cultural pride, and abundance. It's a time when people come together to showcase Kerala's rich heritage through vibrant festivities, traditional attire like Onam sarees, and artistic designs.