As I woke up today, my phone’s gallery threw back a photo taken on this very day, five years ago—when most of us were asked to Stay Home, Protect the NHS, and Save Lives. Having moved to the UK, for the past five years, my daily Vishukkani has been my beautiful better half—except on days when one of us was on a night shift! She’s been my world for the past twelve years, and during the Covid era, she even became my personal hair stylist.
Growing up alongside a genuinely devout Amma and an ‘almost atheist’ Achan, I guess I could be branded a ‘neutral Hindu’. Without the slightest disapproval, Achan would always buy flowers to help arrange the Vishukkani, and it would always be there to greet me each year on this auspicious day. Though our display was never as vibrant or elaborate as those in other Malayali households, Amma would still wake me up and gently guide me to the Kani. It would brighten my heart (and indeed, fatten my wallet by the end of the day with all the kaineettams).
Amma isn’t here anymore, and Achan is 17 hours of flight away — but the memories stay, always.
Wishing all my dear ones a Vishu filled with light and love.
For those wondering what on earth is Vishu, Vishukkani and Kaineettam:
Vishu: A traditional Hindu festival, like Kerala’s version of New Year’s Day, mixed with Thanksgiving vibes.
Vishukkani: A beautifully arranged display of auspicious items, set up the night before and meant to be the first thing one sees on waking.
Kaineettam: A custom where elders give money to younger members of the family as a form of blessing and to wish them prosperity for the year ahead. (Not sure if Gen Z has QR codes for this now!)
