Vishu is the traditional New Year festival of Kerala, celebrated in mid-April (usually on April 14 or 15). It marks the beginning of the Malayalam month Medam and symbolizes new beginnings, prosperity, and hope. The most important ritual of Vishu is Vishukkani—an auspicious arrangement viewed at dawn. It includes gold ornaments, coins, rice, fruits, vegetables, flowers (especially kani konna), a mirror (valkannadi), and a lit lamp, believed to bring good fortune for the year ahead. Elders give Vishukkaineettam (money) to younger family members as a blessing.
