Malayalam New Year
MalayalamAlso known as: Vishu, Vishu Kani
Malayalam New Year
About Malayalam New Year
Malayalam New Year, also known as Vishu, is celebrated on the first day of Medam (April 14 or 15) and marks the beginning of the agricultural cycle in Kerala.
The festival is famous for Vishukkani, the first thing seen on New Year morning — an arrangement of rice, fruits, vegetables, gold, and a mirror before a deity's image.
Families prepare Vishu Kanji (a rice porridge with coconut milk) and exchange Vishukkaineetam (money gifts) with children.
Vishu is a time for new beginnings, with people seeking auspicious sights and blessings to ensure a prosperous year ahead.
Vrat Vidhi & Fasting Rules
The day is primarily celebratory with rituals and feasting.
- Wake up early to see the Vishukkani.
- Prepare Vishu Kanji and other traditional dishes.
- Exchange Vishukkaineetam (money gifts) with children.
- Visit temples for special Vishu pujas.
Parana (Breaking Fast) Note: The day is marked by celebration, feasting, and new beginnings.
Puja Samagri & Ritual Steps
- Prepare the Vishukkani arrangement the night before.
- Wake up early and see the Vishukkani first thing.
- Prepare Vishu Kanji and share with family.
- Exchange Vishukkaineetam with children.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Vishukkani is the traditional arrangement seen first thing on Vishu morning, including rice, cucumber, betel leaves, coconut, flowers, gold, and a mirror.
Vishu marks the beginning of the agricultural cycle and the Malayalam New Year, symbolising new beginnings and prosperity.
Note: All timings are represented in 24-hour notation in local time of the selected location with DST adjustment (if applicable).
Hours which are past midnight are suffixed with next day date. In Panchang, a day starts and ends with local sunrise.
Recommended Pages
Comprehensive annual Hindu calendar with tithis and festivals.
Detailed month-wise view of lunar tithis and celestial events.
Marathi Panchang and festive dates for the year.
Gujarati Vikram Samvat calendar and festivals.
Telugu calendar and festive Panchangam details.
Tamil solar calendar dates and monthly Panchangam.