Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
South Indian Festival of 'Onam' is associated with which of the following?
Solution & Analysis
Answer: D
Concept
Onam is the premier cultural festival of Kerala, rooted in agrarian traditions and Hindu mythology. It celebrates the homecoming of a legendary ruler under whose reign equality and prosperity flourished.Explanation
According to Kerala folklore and Puranic tradition, Onam commemorates the reign of King Mahabali. Despite being an Asura, he was a benevolent ruler whose devotion was tested by Lord Vishnu in his Vamana (dwarf) avatar.Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Mahabali was a generous king whose popularity made the gods anxious. Vishnu as Vamana asked for three steps of land; he covered earth and sky in two, and Mahabali offered his head for the third.
Logic 2: Pleased by his sacrifice, Vishnu granted him a boon to visit his subjects once a year. This annual visit is celebrated as Onam.