On Saturday, April 18, 2026 at Sai Sansthan, Onehunga

Sasi Nambiar
Auckland, April 11, 2026

The Organisation of Hindu Malayalees New Zealand (OHM NZ) will celebrate ‘Vishukkaineettam,’ popularly known as ‘Vishu,’ marking the Malayali New Year on Saturday, April 18, 2026 at Shirdi Saibaba Sansthan, located at 12 Princes Street, Onehunga, Auckland. 

Vishu is a traditional New Year’s Festival celebrated by Malayalis across the globe. 

Observed on April 14 or 15, Vishu marks the first day of Medam, the first month of the Malayalam Solar Calendar. The festival symbolises new beginnings, hope, and prosperity, and is deeply rooted in Kerala’s cultural and spiritual traditions.

The Celebration in Auckland will commence with ‘Vishukkaineettam,’ a cherished custom where children are offered money as a token of blessing for prosperity and well-being. 

The Programme will also feature cultural programmes presented by members, including traditional dance performances, songs, and skits that reflect Kerala’s rich artistic heritage.

The Significance of Vishu

Vishu marks the beginning of the Kolla Varsham (Astronomical Year) and is ushered in with the ritual of Vishukkani, the auspicious first sight of the New Year. 

The Vishukkani is a carefully arranged display of sacred and symbolic items placed before a deity and viewed early in the morning. It typically includes vegetables, flowers, coins, rice, a traditional mirror, and a lit lamp. Many households place an idol of Lord Krishna in the Kani, as it is believed that seeing Him first brings good fortune. 

The tradition is based on the belief that beginning the year by seeing auspicious objects invites prosperity and positivity for the months ahead, a belief that has been passed down through generations.

The highlight of the celebration is the Vishu Sadya, a traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf. The Sadya consists of nearly 28 dishes, including favourites such as Sambar, Thoran, Koottukari, and various Payasams. 

Preparations begin early, with members of OHM NZ volunteering their time to set up and organise the cooking under the guidance of a Head Chef. This collective effort reflects the strong sense of community and shared responsibility that defines the organisation.

The Symbolism of Vishu Sadya

The Sadya is more than a feast—it carries a deeper symbolic meaning. 

The variety of flavours, ranging from sweet and sour to bitter and spicy, serves as a reminder that life itself is made up of diverse experiences. 

It reflects the belief that no phase is entirely joyful or difficult, that all experiences are transient, and that one must embrace each moment with balance and gratitude.

Vishu and Onam celebrations organised by OHM NZ are unique in Auckland, as they are among the few events where members participate in the end-to-end preparation of the traditional feast, just as it is done in Kerala. 

This hands-on involvement evokes nostalgia and helps preserve cultural practices, especially for the younger generation growing up away from their homeland. 

Through such celebrations, Vishu continues to unite communities, strengthen cultural identity, and inspire hope for a prosperous New Year. 

OHM NZ invites the wider community to come together and experience the spirit of Vishu through traditional customs, cultural performances, and an authentic Vishu Sadya. 

Tickets for the Vishu celebration are now open for booking and are available at https://ohmnz.org.nz/events/vishu-2026/. 

Sasi Nambiar is the Joint Secretary of the Organisation of Hindu Malayalees New Zealand (OHM NZ) with responsibility for Sponsorships.

Our Staff Reporter writes:

The Organisation of Hindu Malayalees New Zealand (OHM NZ) continues to serve as a vital conduit for cultural continuity, bridging the rich traditions of Kerala with the contemporary life of the Diaspora in New Zealand. Through its structured governance and community-focused initiatives, the association ensures that the spiritual and linguistic heritage of the Malayalee community flourishes within the nation’s diverse social landscape.

A Legacy of Cultural Stewardship

The organisation remains steadfast in its mission to preserve Sanatana Dharma and the Malayalam language through various educational and celebratory programmes. By hosting major festivals and fostering youth engagement in traditional arts, OHM NZ creates a sense of belonging for its members. These efforts are instrumental in maintaining a strong cultural identity while contributing to the broader multicultural tapestry of New Zealand.

The management of the organisation is entrusted to a team of dedicated professionals who oversee its strategic direction and community welfare projects. The current office-bearers leading these initiatives are Smitha Nair (President), Rajesh Parappil (Vice-President), Sobha Manmadan Nair (Secretary), Sasi Nambiar (Joint Secretary), Sreejith Somasekharan (Treasurer), Jeen G Nair, Kishore Nair, Vaishnav Rajendra Prasad, Vinod Kumar and Aswathy Nampoothiri  (Executive Committee Members).