Vishu is here. The festival of prosperity that marks the astrological new year in Kerala. Out of all the festivities, it is the Vishu Kani that stands out with its divinity and abundance. Let’s take a look at each of the Vishu Kani items and what it signifies.
What is Vishu Kani?
Vishu Kani is a special arrangement made with several items that is made in front of the Krishna idol. This curated display represents positivity, prosperity, and divine blessing. On Vishu morning, families wake up and view this arrangement as the first sight, which is believed to bring divine blessings throughout the year.
Kani Konna
The Kani Konna flower, the bright yellow flower also known as the golden shower, is one of the essential items in the Kani. This flower signifies wealth and auspicious beginnings.
Aranmula Kannadi
A small mirror, typically the traditional Aranmula Kannadi, is also placed in the Vishu Kani. The mirror that reflects the self with the Kani is a reminder that prosperity includes self-awareness and inner reflection too.
Kani Vellari, aka Cucumber
The staple in Kani, Kani Vellari, represents calmness. It also represents harvest, as Vishu is widely celebrated as a harvest festival.
Coins and currency
Seeing money first is believed to attract wealth throughout the year.
Akshatham
In the Vishukani, raw rice and paddy are often placed in an uruli, the traditional large bowl. This is a prayer to the Almighty that the family never goes hungry.
Kajal
A kajal is placed in the Vishu Kani as a representation of beauty as well as a protection from the evil eye.
Nilavilakku
An oil lamp is placed in the middle of the Vishu Kani as the light that dispels darkness and ignorance.
Fruits and vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are placed in the Vishu Kani as a symbol of fertility, health, and the richness of nature’s bounty.
Holy text
Holy texts like the Ramayana or Mahabharata are placed in the Kani, emphasizing spiritual wisdom and moral guidance in the year.
Kodi Vasthram
A new cloth is also placed in the Vishu Kani, representing fresh beginnings.
