Vishu: Welcoming Prosperity, Light, and Flavors of Kerala

Vishu, the traditional New Year festival of Kerala, is a celebration of new beginnings, abundance, and divine blessings. Observed in mid-April, usually on the 14th or 15th, Vishu marks the beginning of the Malayalam calendar year (Medam month) and holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for Malayalis across the world. At Pungus Kitchen, we believe festivals are not just about rituals—they are about flavors, memories, and the love shared around the dining table.

In this article, we take you through the beauty of Vishu: its customs, significance, and most importantly—the vibrant Vishu Sadya that brings families together.

The Significance of Vishu

The word Vishu comes from the Sanskrit word “Vishuvam”, meaning equal, signifying the day when day and night are nearly the same in length. It symbolizes balance, renewal, and the hope for a prosperous year ahead. On Vishu, it is believed that seeing something auspicious first thing in the morning—known as Vishukkani—will bring good luck for the entire year.

Vishukkani: A Divine First Sight

The highlight of Vishu morning is the Vishukkani, meaning “the first thing to be seen”. The ritual involves setting up an arrangement of auspicious items the night before in front of Lord Krishna or Vishnu. This includes:

• Kanikonna (golden shower flower)

• Raw rice and vegetables

• Fruits and coconuts

• Gold jewelry or coins

• Mirror

• Traditional lamp (nilavilakku)

• Holy text (like Bhagavad Gita)

Elders gently wake children early in the morning, leading them with their eyes closed to view the Vishukkani. It’s a moment of joy, peace, and silent prayers for a year filled with blessings.

Vishu Kaineettam: The Gift of Love

One of the sweetest traditions of Vishu is Vishu Kaineettam, where elders gift money or coins to the younger members of the family. It’s not just about the money—it’s a symbol of sharing blessings and wishing each other prosperity. Kids look forward to this part the most, often saving their Vishu Kaineettam to buy something special.

Vishu Sadya: A Grand Kerala Feast

Food is the heart of any festival, and Vishu is no different. The Vishu Sadya (traditional vegetarian feast) is a lavish meal served on banana leaves. It typically consists of 26–28 dishes, combining sweet, sour, bitter, and salty elements—representing the flavors of life.

Some must-have dishes in a Vishu Sadya include:

• Sadya Rice (Kuthari choru)

• Sambar

• Parippu (Dal curry) with ghee and papadam

• Avial (vegetable medley in coconut)

• Kaalan (yam and raw banana in yogurt)

• Olan (ash gourd and black-eyed peas in coconut milk)

• Thoran (vegetable stir-fry with coconut)

• Pachadi and Kichadi (yogurt-based sides)

• Inji Puli (sweet and tangy ginger pickle)

• Naranga Achar (lemon pickle)

• Payasam – especially Ada Pradhaman, Parippu Payasam, or Palada Payasam

The meal ends on a sweet note with banana chips, jaggery-coated sweets, and cups of payasam passed around with laughter and love.

Vishu Around the World

Though it is primarily celebrated in Kerala, Vishu is also observed with great enthusiasm in parts of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka (as Bisu), and among the Malayali diaspora across the globe. No matter where you are, Vishu brings with it a feeling of home, nostalgia, and togetherness. Even non-Malayali friends join the celebrations, embracing the flavors and beauty of the festival.

Celebrating Vishu at Pungus Kitchen

At Pungus Kitchen, we honor Vishu not just through recipes, but by cherishing the traditions and memories it carries. Whether it’s cooking Ada Pradhaman with your grandmother, waking your child for their first Vishukkani, or watching your little one light the nilavilakku for the first time—these are the moments that make Vishu timeless.

This year, we invite you to try a few authentic Vishu recipes from our blog. From crisp Achappam to creamy Parippu Payasam, we’ve got you covered. Even if you’re celebrating Vishu away from home, these dishes will bring you closer to your roots.

Vishu Wishes from Us to You

May this Vishu bring joy, health, and prosperity to you and your family. May your Vishukkani be golden, your Kaineettam abundant, and your Sadya unforgettable!

Happy Vishu! 🌼🌞🌾
With love,
Pungus Kitchen Team