Vishu kani is the heart of Kerala's traditional new year celebration

Flowers like konnappoovu (yellow flowers of cassia fistula) and fruits like kani vellaari (yellow cucumber), jackfruit, and mango represent the vibrant and abundant nature. A small mirror (Vaalkaanaddi) placed within the 'kani' reflects one's own soul. The essence of nature's abundance should fill our lives throughout the coming year, and this is the significance of the Vishu kani. It's not limited to just the family; the kani is shown to the cow in the shed, the trees in the yard, the paddy plants in the field, and even the pond by the riverbank. This highlights the profound concept behind Vishu kani.

The essence of nature
Viewing 'kani' in the early morning of Vishu is the most important part of the celebration. This is followed by Vishukkaineettam (the customary offering of money by elders to the younger ones) and other festivities. The view of auspicious kani is considered as the harbinger of fortune and prosperity for the entire year ahead. The kani displayed in the prayer room also represents nature itself.

What constitutes Vishu kani?
An uruli, (a traditional brass vessel) is first filled with dry rice, representing the abundance of grains that are essential for life, reflecting the Bhagavad Gita's assertion, "Annaat bhavanti bhootani..." (all beings are born from food). On top of the rice, other items are arranged: golden-yellow kani vellaari, a bunch of cassia fistula flowers, betel leaves, ripe fruits, coconut, a Kasavu (golden-bordered) cloth, a gold necklace, a small container of vermilion (sindhooram), a small mirror, a religious book, jackfruit, mangoes, and other fruits and vegetables from the home garden. These all symbolize nature's bounty. A lit traditional lamp placed near the uruli completes the arrangement and a small idol of Lord Krishna placed near the uruli, adds a spiritual dimension to the Vishu kani.