Onam is the most important traditional festival of Kerala and is celebrated as a harvest festival, cultural celebration and commemoration of the legendary King Mahabali. According to popular Kerala tradition, Mahabali was a beloved and generous ruler whose kingdom was known for prosperity, equality and happiness. Although Mahabali was a powerful king, Lord Vishnu appeared before him in the form of Vamana, a dwarf Brahmin, and asked for three paces of land. Vamana eventually covered the earth and heavens in two steps, and Mahabali offered his own head for the third. Pleased with his devotion, Vishnu granted Mahabali permission to return to Kerala once every year, and Onam is traditionally celebrated as his annual homecoming. The festival lasts for several days and fills Kerala with colorful Pookalam flower designs, traditional dances, music, boat races and elaborate feasts. Families clean and decorate their homes, wear traditional clothing and gather together for the famous Onam Sadya, a large vegetarian feast served on banana leaves. Vallam Kali, or traditional snake boat races, are among the most spectacular attractions associated with the festival. Onam brings together people across Kerala and is celebrated as a symbol of prosperity, unity, cultural identity and harmony.