The most significant occurrence in Vishu celebrations is known as Vishukkani which means – the first thing Lord Vishnu sees after waking up.
Malayalis believe Lord Vishnu is an auspicious object that will ensure a prosperous rest of the year.
Apart from having quality time with family, the preparation of Vishu Kanni has to be the most crucial part of the Vishu celebration. A decorative platter of fruits, herbs, gems, and riches is usually set in front of a mirror during ongoing prayers. Apart from this, it is a customary for people to rise early and look in the mirror and see their faces reflected in all the money and food, which represents the beginning of happier, more hopeful days filled with prosperity.
Vishukaineetam is yet another, and perhaps the most adored, Vishu rite. It refers to elders giving graciously to children in the form of coins, preferably gold coins. It’s a metaphor for the coming new year blessings. Furthermore, it is believed that sharing one’s money with family and friends would bring much more happiness.
A holy book, including the Bhagavad-Gita, is always included in the prayers. The book is both the pramanam—the tool for attaining immortality, non-perishable wisdom—and a sign of that experience.
In every Malayali household, a special feast known as ‘sadya’ is prepared. Rice, sambar, chips, pickle, aviyal, rasam, and a variety of sweets and payasams fill the banana leaf.
Festivals are meant to help one understand the meaning of life, and the rituals are meant to purify our thoughts and attitudes toward nature while transmitting positive energy.
