The state of Kerala and some parts of Tamil Nadu will celebrate the Malayalam New Year, Vishu, today, on Monday, 14 April 2025. Vishu is a significant Hindu spring festival that symbolises new beginnings and the Sun’s transition to the Mesha Rashi. Vishu, a Sanskrit word which literally translates to equal, is the traditional spring equinox when the day and the night are of equal duration. The festival is observed on the first day of the Malayalam month of Chingam, according to the Drik Panchang.

Vishu and Mythology 

Legends say that Vishu is the day when Lord Krishna killed Narakasur, known to be a tyrant who abducted 16,000 women and was defeated by Lord Krishna and his wife Satyabhama.

On the day of Vishu celebrations, the traditional ritual of Vishukkani is performed, where the most auspicious object is seen at dawn and is believed to bring happiness and good fortune throughout the year, along with Lord Vishnu’s blessings. It is believed that the first sight, as reflected in the metal mirror, will bring prosperity. A display is also created which includes decorations of flowers, vegetables, fruits, a traditional lamp, metal mirrors, coins, rice, holy text and other items. Called the Vishukkani, these objects are placed inside a metal vessel called Uruli.

The festival will be celebrated in Kerala, the Tulu Nada region of Karnataka, the Mahe district of Pondicherry and several districts of Tamil Nadu, along with celebrations across the country by the Malayali diaspora.