Happy Vishu and Happy Vaisakhi!!

Just a quick post to wish everyone a Happy Vishu (which is today) and a Happy Vaisakhi (which was yesterday).  Vishu is the New Year based on the Malayalam Calendar in Kerala. Vaisakhi is the Punjabi New Year based on the Punjabi calendar, and hold religious significance for both Hindus and Sikhs of Punjab. 

Our family being from Kerala, we all had a delicious Vishu sadya this past weekend.  A sadya is a huge vegetarian feast!  During most Kerala holidays and weddings, we have a sadya.  Traditionally it can be comprised of up to 25 dishes!  My mom definitely made quite a few, but not quite 25! The meal was fantastic.  Take a look at the picture below.  The sadya is traditionally served on banana leaves.  (That's my dad preparing to place a spoonful of ghee (clarified butter) over the delicious lentils and rice - adds to the creaminess of the whole mix!).

On Vishu morning, the day starts with Vishukanni, this is meant to be the first thing you see when you wake up to ensure prosperity for the new year.  As a symbol of prosperity, rice, fruits, vegetables, betel leaves, flowers, holy texts,  lighted brass lamps and a decorated statue of Lord Krishna will be arranged by in the prayer room to be a welcoming sight on New Year morning.  

S and I went to my parents place this weekend and had a great Vishu, with Vishukanni ready as we arrived!! Here's to a good New Year!