Kerala celebrates Vishu, the Malayalam New Year, with vibrant rituals, traditional feasts, temple visits and widespread festivities, as the festival spirit sweeps across the state on Wednesday.
Vishu, also known as a harvest festival, marks the beginning of the Malayalam month of Medam.
In Hindu households, the day begins with family members witnessing the Vishukkani-a ceremonial arrangement featuring a Lord Krishna idol, Kanikonna flowers (Cassia fistula), vegetables, fruits, rice, gold ornaments, clothes, coins and holy texts placed in brass vessels, symbolising prosperity for the New Year.
Elders in families will be giving Vishukkaineetam to youngsters, a traditional practice of gifting money on the occasion.
After completing rituals at home, people visit temples dressed in new clothes.
Temples across Kerala, especially those dedicated to Lord Krishna, are holding special Vishu rituals.
A large crowd is being seen at the Lord Krishna temple in Guruvayur, Thrissur district, for darshan on the occasion of the New Year.
Similarly, a large number of devotees gathered to witness poojas for Lord Krishna at the Parthasarathy Temple in Aranmula, Pathanamthitta.
Special poojas are also being held at the Lord Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala and the Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple in Thiruvananthapuram.
Preparation of the Vishu Sadhya, a grand feast comprising traditional dishes made with seasonal produce such as cucumber, mango and jackfruit, is another highlight of the celebrations, particularly in central and southern districts.
In the north Kerala districts, the day also marks the beginning of the Vishu Vilakku festival season in many temples.
People began bursting crackers on Tuesday night, and the celebrations continue on Wednesday.
Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan extended their greetings on Tuesday.
Congress leader V D Satheesan shared a video message on social media.
"All festivals and celebrations are symbols of love, friendship and sharing. Vishu is also the same. Instead of seeing it as a festival of any one community, we should celebrate it together. I wish this Vishu becomes a celebration of friendship," he said.
BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar also posted a video message.
"Wishing a joyful and prosperous Vishu to all Keralites around the world. May this New Year bring everyone prosperity, goodness, and good health. Happy Vishu," he said.
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor also extended greetings.
"May this Vishu lead us towards a bright future filled with prosperity and unity. Wishing everyone a Vishu filled with peace, abundance, and goodness," he said.
General Education Minister V Sivankutty wished that the dawns of prosperity and abundance continue, and conveyed heartfelt Vishu greetings.
Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala said that each Vishu brings the hope of better times ahead.
"May the rays of light that dispel darkness spread into every heart. Like glowing sparklers, may each heart shine brightly. May the New Year be a time to realise our dreams. Heartfelt Vishu wishes to everyone," he said.
Actors Mohanlal and Mammootty also posted Vishu greetings on their social media pages.&nbsp;
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