Vishu 2024 - 10 things to know with detail
- Vishu is a traditional festival celebrated in the state of Kerala, India. Here are 10 things to know about Vishu in 2024:
- 1. Date: Vishu is typically celebrated on the first day of the Malayalam month of Medam, which falls in the month of April. In 2024, Vishu will be celebrated on April 15th.
- 2. Significance: Vishu is considered the Malayali New Year and is a day of new beginnings and fresh starts. It is believed that the first thing one sees on Vishu morning sets the tone for the rest of the year.
- 3. Customs: One of the most important customs of Vishu is the Vishukkani, which is a collection of auspicious items like rice, fruits, vegetables, flowers, and gold coins, arranged in a traditional manner and displayed in front of a deity. It is the first thing one sees upon waking up on Vishu morning.
- 4. Feast: A grand feast is prepared on Vishu, featuring traditional Kerala dishes like sadya (a vegetarian meal served on a banana leaf), payasam (a sweet dessert), and various other delicacies.
- 5. Attire: People typically wear new clothes on Vishu as a symbol of new beginnings and prosperity. Women wear traditional Kerala sarees like Kasavu and men wear traditional mundu and shirt.
- 6. Fireworks: Fireworks are a common sight on Vishu night, with people lighting up the sky with colorful crackers and sparklers to mark the festive occasion.
- 7. Vishu Kaineettam: Another important tradition of Vishu is giving and receiving Vishu Kaineettam, which is a token amount of money given to younger family members and children as a blessing for the new year.
- 8. Cultural performances: Vishu is also a time for cultural performances like Kathakali, a traditional dance-drama form, and various other art forms showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.
- 9. Vishu Sadhya: The Vishu Sadhya is a grand feast prepared on Vishu day, featuring a variety of dishes served on a banana leaf. It is a time for families to come together and celebrate the festive occasion.
- 10. Wishes and greetings: On Vishu, people exchange wishes and greetings with their loved ones, wishing each other a happy and prosperous new year ahead. It is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness for the Malayali community.