Vishukani and handing over the Vishukaineettam are the major highlights of Vishu. The kani prepared in front of the idol of Lord Krishna will have seasonal vegetables arranged before a burning traditional lamp. A looking glass is placed alongside the kani with the ubiquitous kani konna and a piece of gold jewellery featuring among the items. The kani is the clearest indication of Vishu's origin as a harvest festival. However, climate change due to global warming, which has impacted the change of seasons, is leading to early flowering of the Kani konna (the Labernum). Hence, procuring the daffodil yellow flower for preparing the Vishukani may require that little extra.
Though primarily a harvest festival, Vishu is one of those rare occasions that brings mirth in abundant measure to both children and grown-ups - for slightly different reasons, though. The festival is particularly a time to rejoice for kids on two counts - the Vishukaineettam given by elders and the fact that the festival coincides with the untramelled joy of the summer holidays. With adults, the mirth provided by Vishu gives a welcome break from the humdrum existence and blistering heat that makes life unbearable during peak summer in April - May.
True to Kerala's famed tradition of major festivals being celebrated by people of all faiths, Vishu too sparks revelry across all sections of society irrespective of caste or religion. As is the case with majority of observances and merrymaking , there is a difference in the manner in which Vishu is celebrated in the southern parts of the state and the northern Malabar region. In northern Kerala, Vishu celebrations rival even those held during Onam. Crackers are burst and fireworks displays held to celebrate the festival. In southern Kerala, the festivities mainly include getting new clothes for the family, relishing the Vishu feast and having an evening outing.
There is a gastronomic side also to the popular festival. A sumptuous spread which will include an array of vegetable dishes and payasams is the highlight.
With the Covid threat now easing, just like it was during the pre-pandemic times this will be an occasion for homecoming and family gatherings.
Now, entire families will flock to movie houses to have great time in the rich ambience only film theatres can provide. They will be eager to make the most of the time lost due to the shutdown of the theatres in the wake of Covid. Besides bringing good business for cinemas, crowds thronging theatres can help put lives torn asunder by lockdowns and other curbs back on rails.
Nostalgia is another unmistakable aspect of these festivities. As yet another Vishu rolls in, it is time to reflect on the celebrations that have marked the occasion right from one's childhood and indeed on ways to make the festival far more universal.
Courtesy. The NIE 13 Apr
Tailpiece.
Got up at a half past 2 to light the lamps, activate the Vishukkani and guide Lekha and Suma kunjamma to the puja room. (Sighting of the Vishukkani was between a half past 2 and 4 at the Guruvayur temple).
Had a leisurely breakfast around a half past 10 but not before handing over the Vishukaineettam to the newspaper boy, Ramakrishnan and Lekha in that order. Suma kunjamma had, in the meanwhile, gone to the temple.
Lunch was a feast - made by Lekha, as the maid was on a day off - followed by siesta. Kittu had come by for the morning and afternoon feed. His gash looked manageable.
Messages and calls from friends and relatives, all through the day.
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