Hundreds of devotees thronged temples in the city on Thursday to catch a glimpse of ‘Vishukkani' and take part in special pujas held on the occasion of Vishu.
The festival was celebrated in traditional fervour in the city with the day beginning with the ‘vishukani' in most households. The ritual involves members of the house waking up to take in the view of the elaborately arranged ‘kani,' believed to usher in prosperity and wellness in the year ahead.
Younger members of the family are offered cash and gifts as ‘vishukaineettom' by elders. Having a sumptuous ‘vishu sadhya' with the family is also part of the custom. In some colonies, the festival was marked by bursting of crackers.
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Apart from the special programmes belted out by television channels, Vishu film releases added to the mood of celebrations. The otherwise busy thoroughfares of the city wore a deserted look by noon on Thursday with educational and government institutions remaining closed for Vishu.
Shopping zones in the city, which were buzzing with activity on the eve of Vishu, also donned a sleepy look on the day. Notwithstanding the spiralling cost of essential commodities, Vishu shopping was at its peak by Wednesday evening. The special outlets opened by the Civil Supplies Department had witnessed heavy rush. Non-governmental organisations and social service organisations in the city ensured that people from underprivileged sections of society also celebrated Vishu.