Vishu is one of the major festivals of Kerala. In Kerala, this festival has more to do with the celebrations and rituals connected to agriculture. This festival is celebrated on the first day of the Malayalam month of Medam (April to May). Vishu falls on the next day of the Sun’s transit from Meenam zodiac to Medam. Interestingly, the duration of the day and night on the previous day of Vishu is equal. The day is known as Vishuvat in Sanskrit. The word ‘Vishu’ comes from this word and on that day the Sun would rise exactly from the east.

In Kerala, Vishu is next only to Onam, the state festival of Kerala. The auspicious day of Vishu marks the beginning of agriculture calendar in Kerala and the land would witness the beginning of many agricultural activities. Though there is another Vishu in the month of Tulam, the Vishu that comes in the Malayalam month of Medam is considered more important. Cultivation of new crops commences on this day and the activities would last up to the Pathamudayam day or the tenth day from the Vishu day. Vishu also has astrological relevance.

Science, History, Mythology and more connected to Vishu

Ceremonies and Materials connected to Vishu