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Vishu, the traditional Malayali New Year, is a time of celebration and new beginnings. One of the most important aspects of Vishu is the Vishu Kani, which is a collection of items that are arranged in a specific manner to signify abundance and prosperity for the upcoming year. This auspicious occasion is celebrated with great enthusiasm and zeal, and one of the key elements of the festival is the Vishu Kani.

The Vishu Kani is a traditional setup of items that are arranged in front of a mirror, which is meant to be the first thing that one sees on the day of Vishu. The Kani is believed to bring prosperity and good luck for the coming year. The preparation of Vishu Kani involves meticulous planning and attention to detail. Preparing a traditional Vishu Kani is a significant ritual in Kerala culture. It symbolizes hope, prosperity, and renewal.

Let's take a closer look at the traditional items that are included in the Vishu Kani.

Uruli- A brass uruli is a main element while preparing Vishu Kani. The vegetables and fruits are arranged in the Uruli.

Kanikonna- Kanikonna is the important flower used in Vishu Kani. It have great importance in the Kani preparation.

Valkannadi - The Valkannadi is a traditional mirror that is placed at the center of the Vishu Kani. This mirror is typically made of brass or silver and is believed to reflect the image of God.

Nilavilakku - The Nilavilakku is a traditional lamp that is placed beside the mirror. This lamp is typically made of brass or bronze and is lit early in the morning on the day of Vishu.

Vegtables & Fruits- Mango, Jackfruit, cucumber, Pineapple, Coconut, banana etc are the important items included in the list

Thirudada - The Thirudada is a special type of decorative piece made of cloth and is used to give more beauty to the Vishu Kani.

Kindi - The Kindi is a traditional water vessel that is used to pour water over the idol of Lord Krishna, which is also included in the Vishu Kani. This water is then used to wash the eyes before seeing the Vishu Kani.

Para - The Para is a traditional vessel that is used to store grains and other food items. This vessel is included in the Vishu Kani to symbolize abundance and prosperity.

Pudava- Pudava refers to the traditional kerala dress.

Coin & Gold ornaments- coin is placed in Kani as a symbol of wealth and prosperity

Vishu Kani Preparation

The first step in preparing a Vishu Kani is to gather all the items required. The main items include a brass urn called "uruli," betel leaves, flowers, rice, fruits, vegetables, gold ornaments, coins, and a mirror. The urali is filled with water and decorated with betel leaves. The uruli is placed in the center, and the other items are arranged around it. The mirror is placed in front of the urali to reflect the Kani. After setting up the Kani, it is decorated with flowers. Marigold and kanikkonna flowers are commonly used for decoration. The betel leaves are also placed around the Kani. The Kani is then adorned with rice and fruits, including jackfruit, mangoes, and bananas. Gold ornaments and coins are also placed in the Kani as a symbol of wealth and prosperity. Lamps are lit around the Kani to signify the victory of light over darkness.

The Vishu Kani is a beautiful and meaningful setup that is steeped in tradition and symbolism. It is a wonderful way to start the new year on a positive note and to invite prosperity and good luck into our lives.