: Amid colourful rituals, 'Vishu,' the Malayalam new year, was celebrated in Kerala today with traditional fervour and gaiety.
The day began with Malayalees observing the ritual of 'Vishukanni,' in which seasonal fruits, vegetables, yellow flowers (Konna), rice, gold, clothes, coins and holy texts are arranged on a platter in front of the deity and is the first sight of people when they wake up.
Keeping up the long tradition, elders gifted coins to children as part of the custom known as 'Vishukkaineettam.'
A grand 'sadya' (feast), comprising various dishes and delicacies, mostly made of seasonal fruits and vegetables, was arranged in the afternoon.
The soaring prices of essential commodities did not dampen the festival mood.
Heavy rush of devotees was witnessed in temples across the state including the Lord Krishna shrine at Guruvayur and Lord Ayyappa's at Sabarimala.
Kerala Governor Justice P Sathasivam in his message said, the festival heralds a season of hope and progress and wished all Keralites peace, harmony and prosperity throughout the year.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan also greeted people on the festive occasion.
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