• Source:JND
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THE FESTIVAL of Vishu 2023, also known as the Malayalam New Year, is extensively observed by all people, particularly those from Kerala. People engage in a variety of activities to celebrate this day, including having a good time, being happy, enjoying nice food, and meeting new people.

According to the Gregorian calendar, the first day of the Malayalam month of Medam, which corresponds to the month of April, is when Vishu typically occurs. It has a lengthy history and holds significant cultural and traditional value.

It's interesting to note that the Malayalam New Year, or Vishu, is observed on the first day of the month of May. According to the Gregorian calendar, this often occurs in the month of April. The date of this event varies each year because it depends on the location of the sun; however, in 2023, people are celebrating Vishu today, on April 15, instead of the usual April 14 or nearby. 

Vishu 2023 History And Significance

Do you know this festival's true origin story? Vishu is, after all, deeply rooted in mythology and culture. On this day, it is thought that Lord Krishna vanquished the monster Narakasura; however, a different story has Surya Dev making his triumphant return. Vishu is the day after Ravana's death, when the sun could finally rise from the east because it is stated that the demon king prevented the sun from rising from the east.

Kerala is in accordance with the Malayalam calendar. The new year officially kicks off with this festivity. It is observed with customary ceremonies, feasts, and the giving and receiving of presents because it has profound cultural, spiritual, and social importance.

This celebration Vishu literally means fresh beginnings, and the festival of Vishu stands for the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. A happy and prosperous New Year calls for celebration, renewal, and spending time with loved ones. It's a time for celebration, renewal, and gathering with family or close friends to get blessings for a joyous and prosperous new year.

Vishu 2023 Celebration

All of the residents decorate their homes and gateways for the Vishu festival with flower garlands, banana plants, and Rangolis. Additionally, diyas and other lights will be used to illuminate dwellings during the entire night.

To worship Lord Vishunu and ask for his blessings, people visit the temple. The festival's Vishukkani rite is a significant component. All the items that are believed to bring riches and luck to the family are gathered together during this ritual and placed in a special bell-shaped metal cup, which is then dedicated to Lord Krishna or Lord Vishnu. When the family's oldest female member lights a lamp in the morning, everyone in the household witnesses the Vishukkani.

Finally, the Vishu Paddakam rite includes fireworks and reading passages from the Ramayana. 20–30 dishes, including Vishu Thoran, Beans Thoran, Beetroot Pachadi, Manga Peukku, Tomato Rasam, Aviyal, Sarkara Varatti, Olan, Chakka Aviyal, and Semiya Payasam, are offered as part of the traditional Vishu Sadya, which is a feast traditionally served on banana leaves. Everyone celebrates this unique aspect of the holiday with excitement, happiness, and love for one another.