Vishu is one of the popular festival that is celebrated mainly in the Indian state of Kerala and also in some parts of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. It usually came on or around 14th of April every year and its also marks as the first day of the traditional Hindu calendar in Malyalam.
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Vishu Kani is celebrated with great passion and people involves with various customs and rituals. One of the most important aspects of Vishu is the “Vishukkani,” which means “the first thing seen on Vishu morning.” It is a ritual where an arrangement of auspicious items, including rice, fruits, flowers, and a mirror, which is prepared in the night before the festival. The idea behind of this festival is the first thing one sees on Vishu morning will bring prosperity and good luck for the entire year.
What is Vishu ? (Meaning)
The word “Vishu” means “equal” or “balanced” and is believed to signify the the time or date (twice each year) at which the sun crosses the celestial equator, when day and night are of approximately equal length (about September 22 and March 20). .On this festival people wear various customs and traditions. One of the most important customs of Vishu is the Vishukkani, which is an arrangement of propitious items which is kept ready on night before the festival. The items include in this celebration are rice, fruits, flowers, gold ornaments, and a mirror. People is believed that seeing the Vishukkani first thing in the morning will bring wealth and good luck entire the year.
Another important custom associated with Vishu is the Vishu Kaineettam, which is a monetary gifts like gold, silver, etc. given to children by elders. The amount of money (gift) given as Vishu Kaineettam may vary depending on the financial status of the giver, but it is considered to be a symbol of love and affection.
The festival is also celebrated with feasting and traditional dishes such as Sadya, a vegetarian dish which is served on a banana leaf. It is a time for families to come together and celebrate the new year with joy and happiness on this occation.
Vishu Kani 2023 Date & Timings
Vishu Kani was celebrated in India on 14 April 2023 next it will be celebrated in 14 April 2024.
Legend behind Vishu Kani
The legend behind Vishu Kani dates back to ancient times, when Lord Krishna, one of the most admire god in Hinduism, showed himself to his devotee, the king of Kerala, on the day of Vishu. According to the legend, the king was feeling very sad as he had lost his sight due to old age. Then Lord Krishna appeared front of him and restored his vision, giving him a vision of his divine form, which became the basis for the Vishu Kani arrangement.
Another story associated with Vishu Kani is that the day when Lord Rama,, returned to his kingdom Ayodhya after defeating the Ravana. Then the people of Ayodhya welcomed Lord Rama by lighting Diya and decorating the city with flowers and auspicious items.
Vishu Kani is mainly celebrated in South Indian state of Kerala and in parts of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. It is celebrated on the first day of the Malayalam month of God, which usually came in April. On this day people also believe day and night are of equal duration. Vishu Kani is celebrated early in the morning, when people wake up before dawn and go to the prayer room or puja room, where a special arrangement known as “Vishu Kani” is prepared.
Vishu Kani Significance & Rituals
The celebration of Vishu Kani starts from the night before when the arrangement of Vishu Kani is made. The items are kept in a special order, and the pot or plate is covered with a white cloth. A lighted lamp is placed near the Kani, and it is left undisturbed until the morning of Vishu. The idea behind keeping the Kani undisturbed is that it is believed to have the power to bring good fortune.
Apart from the Kani Kanal, another important aspect of Vishu Kani is the preparation of the traditional food, and the food, is also known as “Sadya,” which is served on banana leaves rice, sambar, avial, thoran, and payasam et include in that dishes and families come together and enjoy the meal.
In southern region of India on this festival we see unity of families . Vishu Kani is the first day of the Malayalam month and its also marks as the beginning of the New Year as per the Malayalam calendar. This festival is also known as “Vishuva” or “Bisu” in other parts of India.
The significance of Vishu Kani lies in the belief that the first thing one sees on the morning of Vishu determines the prosperity and success of the coming year. Hence, the tradition of setting up a Vishu Kani or an auspicious sight is followed. It is a collection of auspicious items that are arranged in a pot or a plate and kept in front of the idol of Lord Krishna. The sight includes rice, coconut, fruits, betel leaves, gold ornaments, coins, and a mirror. The mirror symbolizes self-reflection, and the gold represents wealth and prosperity.
Vishu Kani Festival in Kerla (Celebrations)
The main attraction of the Vishu Kani festival is the preparation of a special arrangement of some special items, which is set up by the elder family member before sunrise. The items include rice, fruits, flowers, betel leaves, coins, and a mirror, all arranged in a brass vessel called “uruli.” The arrangement is then placed in front of a statue of Lord Krishna or a picture of a gods, along with a lit lamp.
On the day of Vishu Kani, everyone wake up early and go in the temple for prayers. They then look at the Vishu Kani arrangement as the first thing they see in the morning, which is believed to bring good luck and prosperity throughout the year. The festival is also a time for families to come together, share traditional sweets, and enjoy a feast.
Astrological Point on Vishu
According to Hindu Astrology, on Vishu day, which occurs when the Sun moves into the zodiac sign of Aries (also called Mesha Rashi), farmers traditionally plow their fields and perform other agricultural tasks.
The Role of Astrology in Vishu
Astrology plays a significant role in the celebration of Vishu, and it is believed that the positioning of the celestial bodies during the time of the festival has a profound effect on individuals’ lives. The alignment of the sun, moon, and other planets is carefully considered in the preparation of the Vishukani, and it is believed that this alignment can affect the individual’s destiny for the rest of the year.
Story of Vishu | Vishu Kani History
Bhaskara Ravivarman, a ruler who governed Kerala between AD 962 and 1021 and was a loyal follower of Lord Vishnu, wrote about a celebration called ‘Chithira Vishu’ in his incomplete work named ‘Trikodithanam Shasanam’. The people of Kerala began to celebrate Vishu with great devotion and enthusiasm during the reign of Sthanu Ravi, who ruled between 844 and 855 AD.
We see in scriptures where mention that Vishu is the day when Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, defeated the demon named Narkasura. One another stories say that a long time ago, Ravana, the King of Lanka, did not allow Lord Surya devata to rise from the East. It is said that on the day of Vishu, Lord Rama, the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu, defeated Ravana and the sun started to rise from the East direction.
For more than 1,178 years, the Malayali people have celebrated the festivities of Vishu with great devotion and vigor, and they still continue to celebrate it in the traditional form across the nation and by Malayalam communities all over the world.
Importance of Vishu
Vishu is the one of great festival Kerala reason and its shows the cultural and traditional of Kerala and people celebrate happily. From this festival people believe that this is the beginning Malayalam New Year and this is the time for start new work with celebration great destiny.
One the day of Vishukkani, where people do special arrangement of things which is used on the day of Vishu, that is considered as the very important part of this festival. Everyone believed that on the day on Vishnu Kani looking at first thing in early morning will brings good fortune and happiness entire year.
On this special day all family member came together an join Pooja and celebrate with happiness and they eat traditional food together and different types of sweet and pray for happiness and get healthy life.
People in Kerala celebrate Vishu with a lot of excitement and happiness. They take part in cultural events, processions, and other festive activities to commemorate the occasion. Vishu is an important celebration that represents life, hope, and joy, and it holds a significant place in the cultural heritage of Kerala.
About Vishu Kanni as per Ramayana
The Vishu Khani is a significant event in which people recite verses from the Hindu Holy book, Ramayana, which is considered to be a sacred act. The belief among Malayalis is that the first page of the Ramayana, opened by the devotee during this occasion, will have a profound impact on their life in the upcoming year.
This tradition is regarded as a means to seek divine blessings and guidance for the year ahead. The recitation of the verses from the Ramayana is accompanied by the lighting of lamps and the offering of prayers to the deity. Overall, the Vishu Khani is a much-revered ritual among the Malayali community, symbolizing hope and renewal for the coming year.
VIshu Phalam
Vishu, celebrated as the Astronomical New Year, holds great significance in Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and other regions as well as among diaspora communities. The term ‘Vishu Phalam’ means ‘prediction for the upcoming year’ in Malayalam. In the past, an experienced astrologer would visit every ‘Illam’ or traditional Kerala house, and provide predictions for each member of the family for the next year.
However, in modern times, popular Jyotish magazines publish the Vishu Phalam. This annual ritual is regarded as an auspicious occasion that involves various traditional customs and rituals, including the setting up of ‘Vishukkani’ – a collection of auspicious items, such as rice, fruits, and vegetables – that is viewed as the first thing on Vishu morning. The day also marks the exchange of gifts, known as ‘Vishukkaineetam,’ and a grand feast with family and friends.
Vishu Kaineettam
Vishu Kaineetam is an age-old tradition where elders and friends bestow gifts upon children during the Vishu festival. In the past, it was customary for adults to gift young ones with coins as a symbol of their blessings. However, in contemporary times, the tradition has evolved to include currency notes as well.
This practice holds immense cultural significance and is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the recipient. The gifts given during Vishu Kaineetam are a token of love and appreciation for the children and are often eagerly anticipated. As the world progresses, this beautiful tradition continues to be cherished and passed down through generations, strengthening familial and societal bonds.
Vishu Sadhya
Vishu is a festival celebrated in Kerala and one of the traditional dishes prepared during this festival is called Sadhya. A specific breakfast dish is also made on this day known as Vishu Kanji which is a rice porridge boiled in coconut milk with added spices. After breakfast, the Vishu Sadya is prepared which is a grand feast consisting of various traditional Malayalam delicacies.
The Vishu Sadya has been a festival specialty for ages and is prepared in every traditional household in Kerala. This grand feast is a significant part of the Vishu celebration and is usually enjoyed with family and friends. Overall, the Vishu Sadya is an important cultural aspect of the Malayali community and an integral part of the Vishu festival.
Vishu Padakaam
In Malayalam, the term “Padakkam” denotes fireworks. On Vishu, a traditional festival in Kerala, young people usually leave their homes after breakfast to burst firecrackers. This activity is typically accompanied by elders who also participate in the fun. The word “Padakkam” refers to the small firecrackers that are commonly used during the festival.
This tradition has been passed down through generations and continues to be an integral part of Vishu celebrations in Kerala. Bursting firecrackers is seen as a way to spread happiness and joy and is a common sight during the festival. The sound of fireworks reverberating through the air creates a festive atmosphere, and people of all ages come together to enjoy this traditional activity.
Vishu Kani Greetings
Vishu is a significant festival in the southern part of India, where people exchange greetings with their friends and family. The traditional greeting for this occasion is ‘Vishu Ashamsakal’, which means ‘Greetings on Vishu’. The festival has a rich history and cultural importance, just like many other Indian festivals.
By celebrating Vishu in the traditional way, we can spread joy and happiness among our loved ones. It is an occasion for families to come together, share meals and exchange gifts. The festival is also an opportunity to reflect on the year gone by and set new goals for the upcoming year.
As we celebrate Vishu, let us also remember the essence of the festival – to embrace the new beginnings and cherish the traditions that have been passed down through generations. May this Vishu bring new hope and positivity in our lives and may we continue to celebrate this festival with the same enthusiasm and joy in the years to come.
Conclusion
Vishu is a popular festival celebrated in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. It is considered the beginning of the traditional Hindu calendar in Malayalam and is celebrated on or around April 14 every year. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and involves various customs and rituals.
One of the most important aspects of Vishu is the “Vishukkani,” a ritual where an arrangement of auspicious items, including rice, fruits, flowers and a mirror, is prepared on the night before the festival. The festival is also celebrated with feasting and traditional dishes such as Sadya, a vegetarian dish served on a banana leaf.
Another important custom associated with Vishu is the Vishu Kaineettam, a monetary gift given to children by elders. The significance of Vishu Kani lies in the belief that the first thing one sees on the morning of Vishu determines the prosperity and success of the coming year. Hence, the tradition of setting up a Vishu Kani or an auspicious sight is followed.
FAQs
What is Vishu Kani?
Vishu Kani is a ritual performed on the morning of Vishu, a major festival celebrated in the southern state of Kerala in India.
What does Vishu Kani mean?
Vishu Kani means “the first thing seen on Vishu morning.” It is believed that what one sees on Vishu morning influences their fortunes for the rest of the year.
What items are included in Vishu Kani?
The items that are included in Vishu Kani are rice, betel leaves, arecanut, metal mirror, golden cucumber, holy book, coins, and yellow flowers called Konna.
Who typically prepares Vishu Kani?
Typically, the oldest woman in the household prepares the Vishu Kani, while others in the family wait outside the room until it is ready.
What is the significance of Vishu Kani?
The significance of Vishu Kani is to start the year on a positive note, seeking blessings for prosperity, good health, and happiness. It is also a reminder to be thankful for the blessings of the past year.
When is Vishu Kani performed?
Vishu Kani is performed on the morning of Vishu, which falls on the first day of the Malayalam month of Medam (usually in mid-April).
