Hare Krishna!
Vishu, a typical Malayali Hindu festival is typically celebrated by them on the 14th or 15th of April, whichever is the first day of Malayalam month of Medam. In Sanskrit/Malayalam, Vishu means equal, which means equal hours of day and night or the equinox. It is also a harvest festival celebrated in Kerala like Bihu in Assam. The festival is marked by family time, preparing colorful auspicious items and viewing these as the first thing on the Vishu day (Vishukkani). In particular, one seeks to view the golden blossoms of the Indian laburnum (Kani Konna), money or silver items, cloth (Pattu), mirror, rice, coconut, cucumber, fruits and other harvest products. Additionally they wear new clothes (Koti) and then eating a feast (Sadhya). There is also an event (most eagerly looked for by the children) called Kaineettam, where elders give a small amount of pocket money to the younger members of the family.
These are some examples of how a Kani should be kept. Subject to the availability of things minor changes are made. An elder person in the family will get things ready for the Vishu Kani.
Nilavilakku (Lamp), to be cleaned, oil poured and wicks prepared.
Clean and keep Uruli, (Brass vessel) in which the Kani is to be kept and fill it with with Unakkalari ( Brown rice ) and Nellu (paddy). If one does not have an Uruli, use a shallow plate or large plate.
Then place a golden cucumber (Kani Vellari), jackfruit, mango and banana on the Uruli/plate. Jackfruit is said to be Ganesha’s favourite, Mango, for Muruga and Banana is offered for Shri Krishna. Then place both the halves of a coconut on the plate. Some money in the forms of coins and notes are also kept on the Uruli/plate.
Kanikonna Flower, which is main part of Kani is kept in centre. Shri Krishna’s vigraham is decorated and kept. Mirror (valkannadi) is kept next. Kasavu Mundu (new cloth), Betel leaf, coins are placed in the plate. In a small vessel keep clean water.
An elder will usually wake up the young one and ensuring their eyes are closed, will guide them in front of the Kani. In some places, elders use their hands to keep eyes closed while in others they use betel leaves to keep the eyes closed. Once in front the Kani, the young one has their eyes opened and asked to look at the Kani. They are asked to look into the mirror, at Sri Krishna’s vighraham and other items on the Uruli/plate.
After viewing the Vishu Kani, the elders in the family give Kaineettam to the family members. Vishu kaineettam ensure prosperity for everyone who get it.
Wishing a Happy & Prosperous Vishu to all!
