Archive · 15 Aug 2026
Onam 2026: Atham Begins August 16, Thiruvonam Marks Ten-Day Festival
Onam is a big festival celebrated in Kerala, a state in India.
In 2026, it starts on August 16 with a day called Atham.
The festival lasts for ten days and ends on August 26 with Thiruvonam, the most important day.
The story behind Onam is about King Mahabali, a kind and good king who is remembered for bringing happiness to his people.
People believe he comes back every year to visit them, and Onam celebrates his return.
During Onam, families make colorful flower carpets called pookalams, cook festive food, and get together to celebrate.
Many people also send warm wishes and greetings to their family and friends using messages and WhatsApp statuses.
In different parts of Kerala, there are special celebrations, like a big procession in Thripunithura and snake boat races in Alappuzha.
Onam is a time of joy, togetherness, and tradition.
Atham on August 16, 2026, marks the start of Onam's traditional 10-day celebration.
Thiruvonam, the most significant day of Onam, falls on August 26, 2026.
Kerala Tourism describes Onam as celebrating the homecoming of legendary King Mahabali.
Kerala Tourism lists Athachamayam, a major cultural procession at Thripunithura, on August 16, 2026.
The article compiles 50+ Onam wishes, images, messages and WhatsApp status ideas.
- Who
- Families and communities in Kerala preparing for Onam, sharing wishes with family, friends, colleagues and loved ones.
- What
- Onam 2026 festivities begin with Atham, launching a 10-day celebration honoring King Mahabali, with 50+ wishes and greetings shared.
- When
- Atham on August 16, 2026, through Thiruvonam on August 26, 2026.
- Where
- Kerala, India, with noted events at Thripunithura, Alappuzha, Thiruvananthapuram and Munnar.
- Why
- Onam celebrates the annual return of legendary King Mahabali, remembered for a prosperous reign, through traditions such as pookalams, festive food and cultural gatherings.
- Atham 2026
- August 16, 2026
- Thiruvonam 2026
- August 26, 2026
- Festival Duration
- 10 days
- Legend Associated
- Homecoming of King Mahabali
- Key Traditions
- Pookalams, festive food, cultural celebrations
- Athachamayam Procession
- August 16, 2026 at Thripunithura
- Wishes Shared
- 50+ images, messages and WhatsApp status ideas
- Sadya Dishes Mentioned
- Avial, sambar, erissery, parippu curry, banana chips, payasams