Atham asterism in the Malayalam month of Chingam (August / September) marks the beginning of the ten-day Onam festivities in Kerala. As per mythology, Onam festival is a commemoration of the prosperous period of King Mahabali’s rule in Kerala and it also marks his visit to Kerala for seeing his subjects. It is also celebrated as a harvest festival. Athachamayam is celebrated on the Atham day at the historical town of Tripunithura, near Kochi. It is a celebration of a legendary victory of the Raja of Kochi. Pomp and colour mark the pageantry. Caparisoned elephants, varieties of folk art forms, floats and musical ensemble add splendor to the chamayam.
