The despondency of the COVID-19 years seemed distant as Vishu shoppers made a last-minute dash to purchase clothes, vegetables, sweets, gifts and provision on the eve of the traditional spring harvest festival on Thursday.
Family togetherness marks Vishu. Witnessing the Vishukkani at home first thing in the morning is the high point of the celebration. The Vishukkani is traditionally a cauldron of bell metal overflowing with yellow Kanikonna (Indian laburnum) blossoms, coins, gold ornaments, silver artefacts, silk, a mirror, an image of the Hindu deity, Krishna, flowers, fruits and paddy stalks. A lighted oil lamp illuminates the traditional Vishukkani.
Many reckon that viewing the symbol of plentifulness at dawn on Vishu heralds a bountiful harvest season. Witnessing the cornucopia of abundance also signals the advent of wealth and happiness.
