Vishu is a significant festival celebrated in the Indian state of Kerala and by Malayali people around the world. It usually falls in the Malayalam month of Medam, typically in April as per the Gregorian calendar. Vishu marks the beginning of the traditional New Year in the Malayalam calendar.
The festival is characterized by various rituals and customs, with the most prominent being the Vishukkani, which means "the first sight of the year." On Vishu morning, people wake up early to witness the Vishukkani arrangement, which consists of an assortment of auspicious items such as rice, fruits, vegetables, flowers, gold ornaments, and coins, all displayed in front of deities in the prayer room. It is believed that seeing this auspicious sight first thing in the morning brings prosperity and good fortune for the rest of the year.
Another essential aspect of Vishu is the Vishukkaineetam, where elders in the family give money or gifts to younger members as a token of blessings and prosperity. Special traditional dishes are prepared for the occasion, such as Vishu Sadhya, a grand feast served on banana leaves, which typically includes various vegetarian dishes like sambar, aviyal, thoran, and payasam.
Fireworks, cultural programs, and other festivities are also part of the Vishu celebrations, bringing together families and communities to rejoice in the spirit of the New Year. Overall, Vishu is a time of joy, renewal, and hope for a prosperous year ahead.
Reference of the Stamp : The blossom of the Indian Laburnum, also known as the Golden Shower tree or Kanikonna (in Malayalam), holds significant cultural and symbolic importance in Kerala and other parts of South India.
During Vishu, the sight of the Golden Shower tree in full bloom adds to the festive ambiance and is considered an auspicious symbol of prosperity and abundance. The bright yellow flowers of the Golden Shower tree are believed to represent the arrival of spring and the promise of a fruitful year ahead.
In many households, it is customary to include branches of the Golden Shower tree in the Vishukkani arrangement, along with other auspicious items. The vibrant yellow blossoms, along with the other elements of the Vishukkani, are meant to invoke blessings for a prosperous and successful year.
Beyond Vishu, the Golden Shower tree holds cultural significance in various other festivals and celebrations in India. Its blooming period often coincides with the onset of spring, and its flowers are used in religious ceremonies, decorations, and cultural events.
Overall, the blossom of the Indian Laburnum plays a symbolic role in Vishu and is cherished for its beauty and association with auspiciousness and prosperity.
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