WATCH: When Mahabali visited New York

Keralites residing in American cities of New York, New Jersey and Philadelphia gathered in the 'Big Apple' to announce the arrival of 'Mahabali' or 'Maveli', the demon king who ruled benevolently over Kerala.

'Mahabali' was seen meeting New Yorkers and informing them about the Onam festival and its significance.

After visiting Times Square, 'Mahabali' took an open-bus ride along with Malayalis and enjoyed the sights that New York City had to offer.

According to legends, Mahabali ruled over Kerala. He was loved and admired by his subjects and had a prosperous reign. But Mahabali's popularity among humans made the Gods envious and they asked Lord Vishnu for help in limiting his growing clout. Vishnu took the avatar of dwarf brahmin Vamana. Vamana, widely considered as Lord Vishnu's fifth avatar, visited Mahabali.

While hosting Vamana, Mahabali asked him what he wished for. To this, he replied saying that he needed just three steps of land. Mahabali agreed without thinking twice. Vamana then started growing in stature and covered the skies and the netherworld with his first two steps. For the third step, Mahabali offered himself. Mythology says that Vamana granted Mahabali's wish to visit his people once a year to ensure that they were happy and prosperous. Thus, every year, Onam is celebrated to welcome Mahabali.