In a message Tuki wished people from Kerala, who are working in Arunachal Pradesh in huge numbers in various capacities, and expressed hope that the festival would bring them closer with the local Arunachalees and spread the message of peace, brotherhood and bonhomie.
"The contributions of people from Kerala in the evolution and development of Arunachal Pradesh cannot be measured in physical terms. On this auspicious occasion of Onam, let me express gratitude to them on behalf of the people of Arunachal Pradesh and join them in joyous celebrations," Tuki said in the message.
As are the local festivals of the state, Onam too is a harvest festival and is celebrated with joy and enthusiasm by people of all communities. According to a popular legend, the festival is celebrated to welcome King Mahabali, whose spirit is said to visit Kerala at the time of Onam.
Onam is celebrated in the beginning of the month of Chingam, the first month of Malayalam Calendar (Kollavarsham). This corresponds with the month of August-September according to Gregorian Calendar.
