Kerala and Tamil Nadu Celebrate Malayalam New Year
As the world celebrates the advent of spring, two Indian states, Kerala and parts of Tamil Nadu, will mark the beginning of a new year today, Monday, 14 April 2025. The Malayalam New Year, known as Vishu, is a significant festival in these regions, and the day is filled with traditional rituals, customs, and celebrations.
The word “Vishu” is derived from Sanskrit, which literally translates to “equal.” This refers to the fact that on this day, the day and night are of equal duration, marking the spring equinox. The significance of Vishu goes beyond the astronomical phenomenon, as it is believed to be a day of great spiritual importance.
According to legend, Vishu is the day when Lord Krishna killed Narakasur, a demon who had been terrorizing the earth. This mythological event is said to have freed the world from the clutches of evil and ushered in a period of peace and prosperity. As a result, Vishu is celebrated as a day of victory over evil and the beginning of a new era.
Preparations for Vishu began days in advance, with people decorating their homes with traditional Kerala motifs, such as the banana leaf and the flower garland. The most important ritual of the day is the preparation of a traditional Kerala breakfast, which includes a variety of dishes made with rice, coconut, and spices. The highlight of the meal is the preparation of the sweet dish, “Vishu Kaineetam,” which is a sweet and spicy mixture of rice, coconut, and jaggery.
People wake up early in the morning to take a holy bath, wear new clothes, and perform the traditional “Vishu Kani” ritual. This involves placing a traditional Kerala dish, known as “Uruli,” in the center of the house, which is filled with a variety of items, including fruits, vegetables, and spices. The items in the Uruli are arranged in a specific pattern, which is believed to bring good luck and prosperity.
The day is also marked by the exchange of gifts, especially among family members and friends. The gifts are typically wrapped in banana leaves and include items such as new clothes, jewelry, and traditional Kerala sweets. The exchange of gifts is believed to bring good luck and prosperity in the coming year.
In addition to the traditional rituals and customs, Vishu is also celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor in public spaces. Street performances, cultural programs, and traditional dances are an integral part of the celebrations. The streets are decorated with colorful lights, flowers, and banners, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Tamil Nadu, although not a predominantly Malayalam-speaking state, has a significant Malayalam-speaking population, particularly in the districts of Kanyakumari and Tirunelveli. The people of these districts celebrate Vishu with equal enthusiasm and fervor, although the celebrations may vary slightly from those in Kerala.
In conclusion, the Malayalam New Year, Vishu, is a significant festival in Kerala and parts of Tamil Nadu. The day is filled with traditional rituals, customs, and celebrations, which are steeped in history and mythology. As the world celebrates the advent of spring, people in these regions are looking forward to a new beginning, filled with hope, joy, and prosperity.
Source: https://thecsrjournal.in/kerala-tamil-nadu-celebrate-malayalam-new-year-vishu/
