Chennai, Aug 25 (IANS) Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) leader, Anbumani Ramadoss, on Tuesday extended greetings to Malayalis across the world on the occasion of Thiruvonam, expressing hope that the festival would usher in happiness, peace, prosperity and social justice.
In a statement, Anbumani said Onam commemorated Mahabali, the legendary king remembered in Kerala for his generosity, benevolent rule and deep affection for his subjects.
He conveyed his wishes to Malayali families celebrating the harvest festival and described the story of Mahabali as one that carried an enduring message about compassionate governance.
Referring to the traditional account associated with Onam, the PMK leader said Mahabali had once ruled the region corresponding to present-day Kerala with distinction and earned a reputation as a generous and just monarch.
According to the legend, Lord Vishnu appeared before the king in the form of Vamana and sought three paces of land.
After Mahabali agreed, Vamana covered the Earth with his first step and the heavens with the second. With no space remaining for the third step, the king offered his own head and was sent to the netherworld.
Mahabali was later granted permission to return once every year to visit his people, and that annual homecoming is celebrated by Malayalis as Thiruvonam.
Anbumani said Mahabali’s continuing love for his people, even after being banished to the netherworld, symbolised the qualities citizens expected from those in power.
Rulers who remained devoted to their people under all circumstances were a blessing, he said, adding that the public’s aspiration for such leadership would be fulfilled in the coming years.
The PMK leader wished that Onam celebrations would bring lasting joy to every family and that people would enjoy the same spirit of happiness throughout the year.
He also prayed for the growth of love, virtue, harmony, abundance, brotherhood, equality, social justice and humanity. Reiterating his greetings, Anbumani said Onam should inspire society to uphold fairness, compassion, inclusiveness and concern for the welfare of all sections.
He wished Malayalis in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, elsewhere in India and abroad a joyful and prosperous festival marked by unity and goodwill.
—IANS
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