What is Vishu?
Vishu is the Malayalam New Year festival of Kerala, celebrated in mid-April on the first day of the month of Medam, when the Sun enters Mesha. It is a festival of light, prosperity and hope for the year ahead.
Vishukkani
The most important ritual is Vishukkani, "the first sight". The night before, the eldest woman of the house arranges rice, golden konna flowers, a cucumber, fruits, gold, a mirror, a lamp and an idol of Lord Krishna. At dawn, family members are led to see it with their eyes closed, as seeing auspicious things first is believed to bring a good year.
Kaineettam and sadya
Elders give children and younger relatives money called Vishukkaineettam. Families enjoy a Vishu sadya, children burst firecrackers called padakkam, and people visit temples such as Guruvayur and Sabarimala.