Seasonal Festivals — Hindu Sacred Festival
Vishu
Vishu is the Kerala New Year, celebrated on the first day of the Malayalam solar month of Medam (April 14/15). The most sacred ritual is the Vishukkani — the first auspicious sight of the New Year — a carefully arranged display of auspicious items (golden cucumber, coconut, betel leaves, flowers, fruits, gold, cloth, holy texts, a lit lamp, and the face of Vishnu) that is prepared the night before and viewed with closed eyes first thing in the morning. It is believed that what you see first on Vishu determines the fortunes of the coming year.
Last updated: 23 April 2026 · Source: Vedic Tradition
Significance
Vishu marks the astronomical New Year in Kerala — the sun's entry into Medam (Aries). The Vishukkani ritual symbolizes abundance, prosperity, and divine blessings for the entire year. Vishukkaineettam (elders giving money to children) ensures prosperity flows to all generations.
Rituals & Traditions
Night before: arrange Vishukkani with golden cucumber, coconut, kani konna flowers (golden shower), betel leaves, fruits, gold, cloth, lit lamp, and Vishnu idol. Morning: wake up before dawn, cover eyes, and be led to see the Kani first. Vishukkaineettam: elders give money to children and servants. Wear new clothes. Burst firecrackers. Visit Vishnu temples.
Traditional Foods
FAQ
Q.What is Vishu?
Vishu is the Kerala New Year, celebrated on the first day of the Malayalam solar month of Medam (April 14/15). The most sacred ritual is the Vishukkani — the first auspicious sight of the New Year — a carefully arranged display of auspicious items (g...
Q.What is the significance of Vishu?
Vishu marks the astronomical New Year in Kerala — the sun's entry into Medam (Aries). The Vishukkani ritual symbolizes abundance, prosperity, and divine blessings for the entire year. Vishukkaineettam (elders giving money to children) ensures prosperity flows to all generations.
Q.What are the rituals of Vishu?
Night before: arrange Vishukkani with golden cucumber, coconut, kani konna flowers (golden shower), betel leaves, fruits, gold, cloth, lit lamp, and Vishnu idol. Morning: wake up before dawn, cover eyes, and be led to see the Kani first. Vishukkaineettam: elders give money to children and servants. Wear new clothes. Burst firecrackers. Visit Vishnu temples.
Q.What foods are made during Vishu?
Vishu sadhya (feast), Kanji (rice gruel), Veppampoorasam (neem-jaggery bitter starter), Mampazhapulissery (mango curry), Thoran, Payasam