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Fascinating Vishu Traditions You Need to Know
Date 9 April 2025 Reading time: 7-10 mins
As the golden rays of the sun peek through the emerald green landscapes of Kerala, a sense of renewal and hope fills the air. This is the magic of Vishu, the traditional New Year celebration that marks the beginning of the Malayalam calendar. From the preparation of the auspicious Vishu Kani to the grand feasts and family gatherings, Vishu is a time for rejoicing, reflection, and setting positive intentions for the year ahead.
But what is Vishu? Why is it celebrated with such zeal? And what are the unique rituals and traditions tied to this festival? Well, get ready to dive deep into the fascinating world of what is Vishu as we unravel its significance and customs. We'll explore the significance behind the rituals, the mouthwatering flavours of the Vishu Sadya, and the ways in which Malayalis around the world celebrate this joyous festival. So sit back, relax, and let's dive into the colourful world of Vishu!
What is Vishu?
So, what is Vishu? When is Vishu celebrated? Vishu is the Malayalam New Year, celebrated on the first day of the month of Medam in the Malayalam calendar, which usually falls in the middle of April. The word "Vishu" is derived from Sanskrit, meaning "equal," signifying the day when day and night are of equal length. If you are wondering, Vishu is celebrated in which state? It is celebrated mainly in Kerala but all across India.
The Significance of Vishu
At its core, what is Vishu is that it symbolises new beginnings. When is Vishu celebrated? It falls on the first day of the Malayalam month of Medam (usually April 14 or 15 in the Gregorian calendar), right after the spring equinox. Mythologically, what is Vishu is the commemoration of the day Lord Vishnu defeated the demon King Bali. Some also link it to the day of Lord Krishna's victory over the demon Narakasura.
But beyond mythology, why is Vishu celebrated holds deep cultural and astrological significance:
- It marks the Sun's transit into the Medam Rasi (the first solar month)
- Farmers see Vishu as the beginning of a new agricultural season
- Vishu signals the start of Zodiac New Year in Kerala, based on planetary positions
- Malayali families view Vishu as an occasion to come together and bond
The Traditions of Vishu
One of the most important traditions about Vishu is the preparation of the Vishu Kani, an auspicious arrangement of items that is believed to bring good luck and fortune. And this reflects in its myriad traditions:
- Vishu Kani: The festival begins with viewing the Vishu Kani, an arrangement of auspicious items like rice, lemon, golden cucumber, betel leaves, areca nut, a metal mirror, holy texts, coins, and yellow flowers. Elders blindfold younger family members and lead them to see the Kani first thing in the morning.
- Vishu Kanji: A wholesome feast is incomplete without Vishu Kanji, a nutrient-rich porridge made with rice, coconut milk, and spices. It's often served with pickles, papadam, and other sides.
- Vishu Kaineetam: Another heartwarming custom about Vishu is Vishu Kaineetam, where elders gift money to younger relatives. It signifies their blessings for a prosperous year ahead.
- Vishukonna: No Vishu is complete without the bright yellow Vishukonna flowers (Cassia fistula) that bloom during this time. These golden beauties are used to decorate homes and temples, symbolizing the joy and splendour of Vishu.
How is Vishu Celebrated in Kerala?
Vishu celebrations in Kerala are a joyous affair, filled with family gatherings, feasts, and cultural activities. Here are some of the ways in which Malayalis celebrate this special day:
- Preparation: Days before Vishu, homes undergo a deep cleaning spree. Fresh flower garlands adorn doors, and intricate pookalams (floral rangolis) grace the entrance.
- Temple Visits: About Vishu, on the day of Vishu, devotees throng temples to offer prayers and seek blessings. The famous Sabarimala and Guruvayur temples witness massive crowds.
- Vishu Sadya: No Vishu celebration is complete without the grand Sadya, a traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf. The Sadya includes a variety of dishes, each with its own unique flavour and significance. From the tangy Sambar to the sweet Payasam, the Vishu Sadya is a culinary delight that brings families together.
- Vishu Kaineettam: Another important tradition of Vishu is the giving of Kaineettam, which involves elders giving money to younger family members as a token of blessings. This custom fosters a sense of love and unity within the family.
- Cultural Performances: Vishu is also a time for cultural celebrations, with many temples and community centres organising traditional dance and music performances. The sound of the Chenda and the graceful movements of the Mohiniattam dancers add to the festive atmosphere.
- New Clothes and Accessories: Malayalis love to dress up in their finest ceremonial attire on Vishu, with men wearing crisp white kurtas and women donning elegant silk sarees . Accessorising with gold jewellery is also an important part of the Vishu look.
Celebrating Ram Navami in Style
As we gear up to celebrate another Ram Navami, let's take a moment to reflect on its deeper significance. It's not just about the rituals and festivities; it's about the values that Ram embodied and the lessons that his life taught us. In a world that often seems to be filled with darkness, why Ram Navami is celebrated is a reminder that the light of goodness, the light of truth, can never be extinguished.
So, this Ram Navami, let's celebrate with not just our festivities but also our actions. Let's strive to be a little more compassionate, a little more righteous, a little more selfless, like the story of Ram Navami. And if you're looking for the perfect festive attire to match your inner radiance, do check out Diwas' exquisite collection of men's festive wear. Here's wishing you and your loved ones a very happy Ram Navami! May the blessings of Lord Rama illuminate your path always.
Understanding Vishu
As we've seen, what is Vishu and Vishu is celebrated in which state is a festival that is steeped in tradition, culture, and joy in Kerala. From the preparation of the Vishu Kani to the grand feasts and family gatherings, every aspect of this celebration is designed to usher in a year filled with prosperity, happiness, and blessings.
So this Vishu, let's embrace the spirit of this beautiful festival and start the new year on a positive note. Dress up in your finest festival attire, share a delicious Sadya with your loved ones, and make cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
And if you're looking for the perfect Vishu outfit, look no further than Diwas, your one-stop destination for stylish and affordable Indian wear. From elegant white silk kurtas to regal yellow cotton kurtas, we have the perfect ensemble for every taste.
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