Vishu - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. Vishu is a Hindu festival celebrated in the southern Indian state of Kerala and by the Tuluva community in Karnataka.
- 2. The festival falls in the month of Medam in the Malayalam calendar, usually in April, and marks the beginning of the Malayalam New Year.
- 3. Vishu is a day of new beginnings and is considered an auspicious time for starting new ventures and seeking blessings for a prosperous year ahead.
- 4. The main ritual of Vishu is the Vishukkani, which is a collection of auspicious items including rice, fruits, vegetables, flowers, gold, and a mirror, arranged in a vessel and displayed in front of the deity early in the morning.
- 5. On Vishu morning, people wake up to see the Vishukkani first and offer prayers for a blessed and prosperous year ahead.
- 6. Another important aspect of Vishu is the giving of Vishukkaineetam, which is a token amount of money given to children and younger members of the family as a sign of good luck.
- 7. Special Vishu feasts are prepared, including dishes like Vishu Kanji, a sweet rice porridge made with coconut milk, jaggery, and spices, and Vishu Sadya, a traditional vegetarian feast served on banana leaves.
- 8. The festival is also marked by the bursting of firecrackers, visiting temples, and spending time with family and loved ones.
- 9. Vishu is a time for joy, celebration, and reflection on the past year, as well as looking forward to new opportunities and growth in the coming year.
- 10. Overall, Vishu is a festival that symbolizes hope, renewal, and the spirit of unity and togetherness within the community. It is a time to express gratitude for blessings received and to seek blessings for a prosperous future.