Onam Weekend: Plan your quick getaway, now!

India, a land of mythological tales and religious beliefs is the place to be in during festivals. This September, Ganesh Utsav (Aug 29: Ganesh Chaturthi and Sept 8: Anant Chaturdashi) is observed all over Maharashtra and other parts of the country with great fervour.

Every year, Lord Ganesh, the harbinger of good time, is welcomed into homes and big pandals and worshipped. The idols are then immersed to signify the cycle of life, which states that every good thing must come to an end so that a new cycle begins from there-on. Sweetmeat, home decorations and songs and dances add to the festivities.

On Sept 7, Malayalis observe Onam in Kerala and other parts of India. Legend has it that Onam marks the commemoration of Vamana avatar of Vishnu and the subsequent homecoming of mythical King Mahabali.

Being a Harvest festival, the delicacies prepared are made from the local produce. Street plays and dances dot the cityscape, much to tourists’ amazement. Tiger Dance is one such unique aspect during this season.