🌾 What is Vishu?
Vishu is the New Year and harvest festival of Kerala, celebrated with grandeur and devotion across the state and among Malayalee communities worldwide. This year it falls on April 14th
🌞 Origins & Mythology
Vishu is deeply rooted in mythology and cosmic symbolism. It is associated with the worship of Lord Vishnu, revered as the Lord of Time, and is considered a powerful time to offer oblations to him. Legend suggests that Vishu celebrations began in Kerala during the reign of King Sthanu Ravi (circa AD 844–855), indicating its ancient and royal origins.
In some parts of Northern Kerala, especially in Kasaragod, a charming tradition unfolds where two boys dress up in dried banana leaves, symbolizing Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and visit ancestral homes to bless families as divine beings.
🌸 How Vishu is CelebratedÂ
1. Vishukkani (The Auspicious Sight)
At dawn, families wake up to witness the Vishukkani - an arrangement of golden konna flowers (Cassia fistula), rice, fruits, vegetables, a mirror, currency, gold ornaments, and an idol or image of Lord Krishna. The belief is that the first sight on Vishu morning sets the tone for the year ahead, and the Vishukkani is carefully curated to reflect abundance and prosperity.
2. Vishu Kaineettam
Elders offer money to the younger members of the family as a token of blessings, known as kaineettam. This gesture represents the sharing of wealth and the hope for a prosperous future.
3. Vishu Sadhya (Feast)
While more modest than Onam, the Vishu Sadya is a delicious spread of traditional Kerala vegetarian dishes like sambar, avial, thoran, erissery, and of course, payasam (a sweet dessert). It’s served on a banana leaf, reflecting the harvest roots of the festival.
4. Fireworks (Vishupadakkam)
Children especially look forward to bursting crackers and fireworks!
5. New Clothes (Vishu Kodi)
Wearing new traditional attire is an integral part of Vishu, symbolizing renewal and fresh starts.
Â
🌞 Vishu in Goa: A Taste of Kerala, Away from Home
Though Vishu is traditionally celebrated in Kerala, the spirit of the festival travels with its people - and in Goa, home to a substantial Malayalee population, Vishu is marked with warmth, nostalgia, and food that tastes like home.
At Chakos Kitchen and Bar, Panjim Goa, we’re marking the Malayalee New Year and harvest festival the way we know best: through food that tells a story. Join us for a Vishu Sadhya that's as nostalgic as it is indulgent - served on a banana leaf, packed with festive flavours, and made with the same love Ammama would’ve cooked it with.
Expect the full spread: From Olan, Kaalan, Avial, to Payasam, Ada Pradhaman, Sambharam, and more! Book your preferred spots on 13th April, Sunday:
11am- 12.30pm
1pm - 2.30pmÂ
3pm- 4.30pmÂ
Only pre-bookings available!
https://mychakos.com/collections/vishu-sadhya-2025