Vishu 2026
Kerala's astrological New Year
Dates Across Years
About Vishu
Vishu marks the astronomical new year in the Malayalam calendar — the day the sun crosses into Mesha (Aries) Rashi. It is one of Kerala's most important festivals, celebrated with the sacred Vishukkani ritual at dawn, Vishu kaineetam (gift-giving), fireworks, and a festive sadya. The word 'Vishu' in Malayalam means 'equal' — referring to the equinox when day and night are of equal length.
Traditions & Rituals
Vishukkani
വിഷുക്കണിThe most important Vishu ritual. The night before Vishu, the eldest woman of the household arranges an auspicious display (kani) in the puja room — including a bronze mirror, golden cucumbers, jackfruit, coconut, betel leaves, rice, coins, a lit lamp, and a copy of the Ramayana. Family members are led to view this arrangement as the very first sight of the new year, eyes closed until in front of the kani, to ensure a prosperous year.
Vishu Kaineetam
വിഷു കൈനീട്ടംThe tradition of gift-giving on Vishu, usually from elders to children. Traditionally given as gold coins or cash, symbolising prosperity for the new year.
Vishu Sadya
വിഷു സദ്യA festive vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf, similar to Onasadya but with seasonal dishes. The bitter-sweet Vishu katta (made from rice and jaggery) is a Vishu-specific delicacy.
Vishu Pataakam
വിഷു പടക്കംFirecrackers lit at dawn to welcome the new year. The sound of crackers at Vishu morning is as iconic to Keralites as fireworks are elsewhere on New Year's Eve.
How Different Districts Celebrate
Grand temple festivals marking the new year at Vadakkunnathan and Guruvayur
Vishu celebrated with city-wide kani arrangements and fireworks at Sree Padmanabhaswamy
Vishu mela fairs with traditional crafts and entertainment
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Vishu 2026?
Vishu 2026 is on March 20, 2026 (Friday). It is a public holiday in Kerala.
Is Vishu the same as Kerala New Year?
Vishu is the astronomical new year of Kerala, based on the Malayalam solar calendar. However, the Malayalam calendar year (Kollavarsham) actually begins on Chingam 1 (around August), making Chingam 1 the official new year. Vishu is the astrological new year based on the sun's entry into Aries.
What is Vishukkani?
Vishukkani is the auspicious first sight of Vishu morning. The eldest woman arranges golden cucumbers, jackfruit, a brass mirror, betel leaves, rice, coins, a lamp, and the Ramayana in the puja room. Family members are led with eyes closed to see this first, symbolising that the first sight of the new year brings prosperity.