Significance
April 13-14 marks the solar new year across the Indian subcontinent under different regional names: Baisakhi in Punjab (also the founding of the Khalsa in 1699), Vishu in Kerala (auspicious first sight of gold, flowers, and grains), Bihu in Assam (Rongali Bihu -- the spring harvest festival), and Puthandu in Tamil Nadu. All share a common thread of gratitude for the harvest, celebration of new beginnings, and prayers to the sun for abundance in the coming year.
Preparation
Rituals & Vidhi
Vishukkani (Kerala)
The senior woman of the household arranges the Kani (auspicious sight) the night before: a bell-metal lamp, Vishnu idol, golden cucumber, mango, rice, coconut, betel leaves, coins, and Kani Konna (cassia) flowers. In the morning, family members are led to the Kani with eyes closed and first see this auspicious arrangement.
Baisakhi Prayer (Punjab)
Visit the Gurudwara for Ardas (prayer), listen to kirtan, and take langar. Offer thanks for the wheat harvest and for the Khalsa tradition.
Surya Worship
Offer Arghya to the rising sun, giving thanks for the harvest. In all regional forms of this festival, the sun's energy is acknowledged as the source of abundance.
Mantra: Om Suryaya Namah, Om Aditya Namah
New Year Feast
Prepare a festive meal with the season's first harvest. Share it with family, neighbors, and those in need.
Family Guidance
Celebrate with children the common thread across all regional new years -- gratitude for food and nature. Make the Vishukkani together, let children be the first to see it in the morning, and give Vishukkaineettam (new clothes or cash gifting).