Legends of Onam

Story tells that during the period of king Mahabali, Kerala witnessed its golden era. Every body in the state was happy and prosperous and king was highly regarded by his subjects. But Mahabali was sent to another world by Vamana an incarnation of lord Vishnu because of gods envy on his popularity. However, for all the good deed done by Mahabali, God granted his wish to visit his land once in a year. The day which Mahabali visited kerala is celebrated as onam.