Vishu – The Malayalam New Year Festival of Light and Prosperity
Vishu: Celebrated on April 14 2025 (Monday)
The Story Behind Vishu – A Tale of Krishna and Kani
Long ago, in the divine land of Dwaraka, Lord Krishna was known not just for his wisdom and courage, but for his deep compassion for people. One day, it is believed, he asked his mother Yashoda what she would like to see first in the morning. She smiled and replied, “Something so beautiful that it blesses my entire day.” Inspired by this, Krishna arranged a mesmerizing sight — a mirror reflecting light, golden fruits, rice, flowers, and a lamp glowing steadily. This arrangement, known as Vishu Kani, symbolized prosperity, peace, and inner clarity. The tradition traveled south with stories of Krishna, and in Kerala, people began to set up their own Kani to welcome the new year, believing that what you see first sets the tone for the year ahead. Over time, the festival became a heartfelt ritual — where families wake up to the sacred beauty of Vishu Kani, children receive gifts as blessings, and everyone comes together to celebrate the joy of new beginnings.
What is Vishu?
Vishu marks the Malayalam New Year in the South Indian state of Kerala. It falls on the first day of the Medam month in the Malayalam calendar, which coincides with Mesha Sankranti—the day the Sun enters the zodiac sign Aries (Mesha).
Vishu is not just a date change — it is a celebration of hope, abundance, and new beginnings. It carries the spiritual essence of starting the year with positivity and balance.
Vishu Kani – The First Sight of the Year
The heart of Vishu lies in the tradition of “Vishu Kani”, which means “the first thing one sees in the morning.”
People believe that seeing auspicious and beautiful objects first thing in the morning brings good fortune throughout the year.
The Vishu Kani arrangement typically includes:
A decorated idol or picture of Lord Vishnu or Krishna
Fresh vegetables and fruits (cucumber, jackfruit, mango)
Uncooked rice and coconut
Gold ornaments
A mirror (symbolizing self-reflection and awareness)
A traditional metal vessel (Uruli)
Seasonal yellow flowers called Konna (Cassia fistula)
A lit lamp (Nilavilakku)
Children are gently awakened and led with closed eyes to view the Vishu Kani as their first vision of the new year. It’s a deeply spiritual and emotionally rich experience.
Vishu Kaineettam – The Blessing of Giving
Another cherished part of Vishu is “Vishu Kaineettam” — where elders gift money or small presents to the younger members of the family.
This exchange is symbolic of blessings, prosperity, and the joy of sharing.
Vishu Sadya – The Grand Festive Feast
No Indian festival is complete without food, and Vishu is no exception.
Vishu Sadya is a traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf. It includes:
Steamed rice
Avial (vegetable curry)
Thoran (stir-fried veggies with coconut)
Inji puli (tamarind-ginger chutney)
Pickles, papadum, and sweet dishes like payasam
The feast represents abundance, harvest, and gratitude for nature’s bounty.
Fireworks and Celebrations
Children and youngsters light firecrackers, adding joy and excitement to the atmosphere.
Families wear new clothes (Vishu Kodi) and visit temples, especially the famous Guruvayur Temple dedicated to Lord Krishna.
Spiritual Significance
Vishu is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the protector of the universe, and his incarnation Lord Krishna.
Devotees believe that starting the year by seeing Vishnu’s form brings harmony, order, and divine guidance.
Deeper Meaning of Vishu
Vishu reminds us that what we see, think, and feel at the start of anything — matters.
It’s about planting seeds of intention, welcoming the new with reverence, and living the year ahead with gratitude, clarity, and courage.
“Start your year the way you want to live it — with light in your eyes and peace in your heart.” – Spirit of Vishu
- Religion World Bureau
