Onam is an unusual festival celebrated mainly in the state of Kerala. Onam is celebrated in the memory of local demon king, Mahabali, who was granted permission to return once a year by Lord Vishnu when ousted from his kingdom because he was very attached to his country and subjects.

Since this festival is celebrated in the honour of the king people clean there houses and decorate it with flowers to welcome the beloved ruler. Snake boats manned by around a hundred oarsmen each, rowing to the rhythms of cymbals and drums, race in thrilling contests at Aranmula, Champakulam and Kottayam in Kerala. In Trichur, a vibrant procession with resplendently caparisoned elephants is taken out.