Mar 4, 2008

PHOTOS OF '' KANIKONNA '' & VISHU







Vishu and Kanikonna

Wondering why didn’t I update this blog for a couple of days last week?. I had been for a holiday with family to the GOD’S OWN COUNTRY , Kerala. The weather was wonderful and was just right – neither cold nor hot.

Among other places we visited the capital Trivandrum ( Thiruvananthapuram), Kollam, Alleppey ( also known as the Venice of the east – due to its interconnected water ways) and the hill town Kottayam.

One noticeable feature was the unusual blooming of “Kanikkonna” ( Botanical name : Cassia Fistula) like a golden shower. It was a wonderful site all along our route – the Kanikkonna in full bloom.

The cascading golden yellow bunch of flowers is a symbol of prosperity for the people of Kerala and is usually associated with “Vishu” a harvest festival which is also celebrated in other parts of India ( eg- Bihu in Ahom- Assam).

Konna Poovu ( Poovu - poo – meaning flower) is an indispensable component of Vishukkani – the auspicious Ist sight ( the first thing to see ) on the new year’s day break ( Other components being gold, fresh vegetables, rice, and what ever you consider precious and essential). Luckily I got a few snaps. Vishu normally falls on 14th of April which normally coincides with this annual flower bloom. But perhaps due to global climate change – the Kanikonna this year bloomed well in advance. Zoom the snaps for a clear view.

2 comments:

  1. I surely did miss out your posts! Now clear why! Wow Konna pu has blossomed, I miss it, in mumbai, from our window we used to see this sight of beautifully Konna pu laden tree!! Tks for the virtual treat!

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  2. Kanikonna is connected with unnikrishnan and guruvayoor. Kanikonna is considered as evolved from one of the bracelet of unnikannan.

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