Onam celebrated with traditional fervour

Kerala today celebrated Onam, the traditional harvest festival commemorating a 'glorious past' when people of the state lived in peace, plenty and equality under the mythical king Mahabali.

Bringing in the traditional fervour, houses were decorated with flowers to welcome Mahabali, who, according to legend, visits his subjects on the 'Thiruvonam' day of the month of Chingam of the Malayalam calendar.

In temples, including Guruvayur and Sabarimala, there was heavy rush of devotees since morning where special poojas were held.

The state government has been holding a tourism week to mark the occasion.

Kerala Governor R L Bhatia, Chief Minister V S Achuthanandan and Opposition leader Oommen Chandy greeted the people on the occasion.