Malayalam New Year

The Malayalam New Year is celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm on the first day of the Chingam month. In the Indian state of Kerala, the Malayalam New Year, popularly known as Vishu, is a highly celebrated festival. The Malayalam New Year is observed with even more joy than a religious event in South India. This occasion of the New Year brings fortune, luck, and prosperity to the people. The Malayalam New Year is a new beginning filled with happiness and grandeur. People try to start fresh by leaving their past behind. On the occasion of the New Year, people visit temples to have darshan of the deity and begin the first day of the New Year. They also pray to the deity for a good harvest in the new year.

The main attraction of Vishu, the Malayalam New Year, is the 'Vishukkani,' which is actually a type of tableau darshan. People in South India believe that the darshan of this tableau helps to eliminate all life’s problems. On the day of Vishu, the first thing to be done is to view the Vishukkani. When the Vishukkani tableau is prepared, the most senior member of the household takes each family member, one by one, to have darshan of it. Before witnessing the Vishukkani, no member of the household opens their eyes. After the darshan, the elders of the family give gifts to all the members, which is considered a symbol of goodwill and a prosperous future. The act of giving and receiving money is seen as a way to share prosperity and ensure that the coming year is filled with abundance. In Kerala, this tradition is known as ‘Kaineettam.’ In some parts of Kerala, fireworks are also set off on Vishu. On this day, a feast known as 'Sadhya' is prepared, which is enjoyed in the afternoon. The dishes are usually made from ingredients like pumpkin, mango, bottle gourd, bitter gourd, and other vegetables and fruits. The Vishu festival is considered a celebration that brings prosperity, peace, and harmony. Vishu is seen as a symbol of the arrival of good fortune and luck.

Significance of the Malayalam New Year

Vishu, or the Malayalam New Year, holds great significance for the people of Kerala as it provides a wonderful opportunity to spend valuable time with their loved ones. This festival is primarily a symbol of prosperity and happiness. The Malayalam New Year embodies the rich cultural heritage of Kerala. It inspires a fresh start with renewal, gratitude, and hope, while also filling life with joy and bliss.

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