Fri Sep 13 09:55:56 UTC 2024: ## King Mahabali Makes Surprise Appearance on Kerala Train, Spreads Onam Cheer
**KOCHI:** Passengers on the Guruvayur-Ernakulam Express were treated to a surprise on Friday when they encountered King Mahabali, the legendary figure of Onam, during their journey. An artist, dressed in the attire of the benevolent king, boarded the train at Guruvayur and entertained fellow passengers until his stop at Edappally.
The artist, who embodied Mahabali’s spirit, engaged in lively conversations with passengers, sharing Onam songs and spreading festive cheer. He also took the opportunity to address concerns raised by the passengers regarding the poor state of roads, lack of train services to Thrissur since the pandemic, and the general state of affairs in Kerala.
“The passengers are worried about the roads and other issues. They also miss having more trains to Thrissur,” Mahabali remarked during the journey, subtly referencing the current political climate and the absence of the mythical king’s rule.
According to legend, King Mahabali, who was banished to the netherworld by Lord Vishnu’s Vamana avatar, returns to Kerala each year during the Onam festival. This unexpected appearance on the train, however, brought a touch of the legendary king’s presence to the everyday lives of the passengers, adding a unique and heartwarming touch to their journey.
“We had a great time with Mahabali today,” one passenger expressed to Manorama News, reflecting the widespread joy experienced by those aboard the train.
The Guruvayur-Ernakulam Express departs from Guruvayur at 6:50 am and arrives at Ernakulam Junction at 9:25 am.
First Piper 