Thiruonam is being celebrated today by Keralites all over the world with great joy and enthusiasm. The festival is celebrated to commemorate the prosperity and peace that prevailed during the rule of the mythical king Mahabali, who is believed to visit Kerala on Thiruvonam day. Onam evokes many feelings for the people of Kerala: a sense of nostalgia, of cherished memories of a lost childhood and of joy and mirth. Homes are spruced up, elaborate pookkalams or floral carpets are laid to welcome King Mahabali, who is believed to visit the state on Thiruvonam day. People wearing new clothes thronged various temples in the state this morning. A large number of people visited the Thrikkakara Temple in Kochi associated with the Onam legend and also at the famous Guruvayoor temple. The highlight of the day is the Onasadya or Onam feast, where delicious traditional dishes are prepared and served at homes. At the Thrikkakara Temple, several hundreds belonging to different religions took part in the Thirovonasadya this afternoon, reflecting the true secular spirit of Onam. Over the years, the festivities may have undergone a great deal of change, but Onam continues to retain its charm and remain a strong bonding force and a passion that unites the people of the state. In Andaman, Onam is being celebrated today. The People performed pujas at their homes .The festival marks the homecoming of the legendary king Mahabali. This festival also brings out the rich cultural heritage of Kerala. A grand cultural programme will be held at Kerala Samajam here on Friday evening.