Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) | പതിവ് ചോദ്യങ്ങൾ
When is Vishu in 2026?
Vishu (വിഷു), the Malayalam New Year, falls on April 14, 2026 (Tuesday). This auspicious day marks Medam 1 (മേടം 1), the first day of the Medam month in the Malayalam calendar. Vishu is celebrated with Vishukkani (വിഷുക്കണി), the first sight arrangement viewed at dawn, featuring auspicious items like gold, rice, fruits, flowers, mirror, and holy books. The nakshathram on Vishu 2026 is Chathayam (ചതയം). Vishu celebrations include Vishu Kaineettam (giving money to youngsters), Vishu Sadya (festive feast), and new cloth purchases. April 15, 2026 is observed as the second day of Vishu and is also a public holiday in Kerala.
What Malayalam months are in April 2026?
April 2026 spans two Malayalam months: Meenam (മീനം) from April 1-13 (Meenam 18 to Meenam 30) and Medam (മേടം) from April 14-30 (Medam 1 to Medam 17). The transition from Meenam to Medam occurs on April 14, which is Vishu (വിഷു) - the Malayalam New Year and one of Kerala's most celebrated festivals. This marks the sun's transit into the Aries zodiac sign (Mesha Rashi) and the beginning of Kolla Varsham 1201. Medam month is traditionally associated with spring harvest, new beginnings, and agricultural prosperity.
What are the major festivals in April 2026?
April 2026 includes several important festivals: Good Friday (ദുഃഖവെള്ളി) on April 3, Easter (ഈസ്റ്റർ) on April 5, Vishu (വിഷു) on April 14-15 - the Malayalam New Year celebration, Akshaya Tritiya (അക്ഷയ തൃതീയ) on April 19 - an extremely auspicious day for new ventures and gold purchases, and Parashurama Jayanti also on April 19. Additionally, Shri Shankar Jayanti falls on April 21, Hanuman Jayanti on April 2, and Ambedkar Jayanti on April 14. World Health Day on April 7 is also observed. These dates carry special religious and cultural significance in the Malayalam calendar.
How many public holidays are in April 2026?
April 2026 has 4 Sundays (5th, 12th, 19th, and 26th) which serve as weekly holidays. Good Friday on April 3 (Friday), Vishu on April 14-15 (Tuesday-Wednesday), and Akshaya Tritiya on April 19 (Sunday) are observed as public holidays in Kerala and other parts of India. Educational institutions typically have extended holidays during Vishu week. Many offices and businesses observe special timings during these festival days. The combination of Vishu falling mid-week makes April 2026 particularly festive with multiple celebration opportunities.
What is the significance of Akshaya Tritiya?
Akshaya Tritiya (അക്ഷയ തൃതീയ) on April 19, 2026 is considered one of the most auspicious days in the Hindu calendar. The word "Akshaya" means "eternal" or "never diminishing," and Tritiya refers to the third lunar day. This day falls on Medam 6 (മേടം 6) with Bharani nakshathram (ഭരണി). It's believed that any new venture, purchase, or investment started on this day will bring prosperity and success. Traditionally, this is the most popular day for buying gold, starting new businesses, performing weddings, and initiating important projects. The day is also significant as it marks the beginning of Treta Yuga and is associated with Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. No muhurtham is required on Akshaya Tritiya as the entire day is considered auspicious.
What is Vishukkani and how to prepare it?
Vishukkani (വിഷുക്കണി) is the first auspicious sight viewed on Vishu morning at dawn, symbolizing prosperity for the coming year. The traditional arrangement includes: Uruli (ഉരുളി) - a bronze vessel filled with rice, Konna flowers (കൊന്ന) - golden shower tree blossoms, gold ornaments or coins, fresh vegetables and fruits like cucumber, mango, jackfruit, betel leaves and arecanut, coconut, metal mirror (വാൽക്കണ്ണാടി), holy texts like Ramayana or Bhagavad Gita, and a lit nilavilakku (നിലവിളക്ക്) - traditional oil lamp. The arrangement is prepared the night before in the puja room, with Lord Krishna's idol or image at the center. Family members are brought to see the Vishukkani with their eyes closed and opened only in front of the arrangement, ensuring it's the first sight of the New Year.
What nakshathrams are important in April 2026?
Several important nakshathrams occur in April 2026: Chathayam (ചതയം) on April 14 marks Vishu and is highly auspicious for new beginnings. Bharani (ഭരണി) on April 19 coincides with Akshaya Tritiya and is considered excellent for wealth-related activities and temple festivals. Thiruvathira (തിരുവാതിര) on April 22 is significant for Lord Shiva worship. Uthradam (ഉതൃരാടം) on April 10 and Pooram (പൂരം) on April 10 are favorable for ceremonies. Each nakshathram throughout the month carries specific characteristics and is consulted for determining auspicious times for weddings, housewarming, vehicle purchases, and other important life events. The daily nakshathram information displayed in the calendar helps in planning according to traditional astrological practices.
🌼 മലയാളം കലണ്ടർ ഏപ്രിൽ 2026 - സമ്പൂർണ്ണ വിവരങ്ങൾ
Malayalam Calendar April 2026 - Complete Guide
Welcome to the comprehensive Malayalam Calendar for April 2026 (ഏപ്രിൽ 2026 മലയാളം കലണ്ടർ). This traditional Kerala calendar provides detailed information about Malayalam dates, festivals, nakshathram (നക്ഷത്രം), thithi (തിഥി), and auspicious days for the month of April 2026. This month is especially significant as it includes Vishu (വിഷു), the Malayalam New Year, making it one of the most celebrated months in Kerala's cultural calendar.
About Malayalam Calendar April 2026
April 2026 corresponds to Meenam-Medam months in the Malayalam calendar system, marking the transition from the Pisces (Meenam) to the Aries (Medam) zodiac period. The month begins with Meenam 18 and transitions to Medam 1 on April 14, which is Vishu - the Malayalam New Year.
Vishu 2026 - The Malayalam New Year
Vishu (വിഷു) is celebrated on April 14, 2026 (Tuesday), marking the beginning of Medam month and the start of Kolla Varsham 1201. Vishu represents new beginnings, prosperity, and the astronomical event of the sun entering the Aries constellation.
Vishu Traditions and Celebrations:
- Vishukkani (വിഷുക്കണി): The first sight at dawn, an artful arrangement of auspicious items including gold, rice, fruits, flowers, mirror, holy books, and a traditional lamp. This sight is believed to determine the prosperity of the entire year.
- Vishu Kaineettam (വിഷു കൈനീട്ടം): Elders give money to younger family members as a token of blessings and prosperity for the new year.
- Vishu Sadya (വിഷു സദ്യ): A grand traditional feast featuring numerous vegetarian dishes served on banana leaves, symbolizing abundance and togetherness.
- New Clothes (പുതുമുണ്ട്): Wearing new clothes on Vishu symbolizes fresh beginnings and is an integral part of the celebration.
- Fireworks (വെടിക്കെട്ട്): Traditional celebration with fireworks to mark the joyous occasion.
- Temple Visits: Many families visit temples to seek divine blessings for the new year.
Major Festivals in April 2026
1. Hanuman Jayanti - April 2, 2026
Celebrates the birth of Lord Hanuman, observed with prayers, fasting, and reading of Hanuman Chalisa. Temples conduct special pujas and distribute prasadam.
2. Good Friday - April 3, 2026
Good Friday (ദുഃഖവെള്ളി) commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Christian communities observe this day with prayers, church services, and fasting. It's a public holiday in India.
3. Easter - April 5, 2026
Easter Sunday (ഈസ്റ്റർ) celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Churches hold special services, and families gather for festive meals and celebrations.
4. World Health Day - April 7, 2026
Observed globally to create awareness about health issues and promote healthy living practices.
5. Vishu - April 14-15, 2026
The most significant festival of the month, marking the Malayalam New Year. Both days are celebrated with great enthusiasm across Kerala and by Malayalam-speaking communities worldwide.
6. Ambedkar Jayanti - April 14, 2026
Birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution, observed with remembrance programs and social awareness activities.
7. Akshaya Tritiya - April 19, 2026
Akshaya Tritiya (അക്ഷയ തൃതീയ) is one of the most auspicious days in the Hindu calendar. "Akshaya" means eternal, and any new venture started on this day is believed to bring lasting success. It's the most popular day for gold purchases, starting businesses, performing weddings, and initiating important projects. No muhurtham is required as the entire day is auspicious.
8. Parashurama Jayanti - April 19, 2026
Celebrates the birth of Lord Parashurama, the sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu, who is believed to have created Kerala by reclaiming land from the sea.
9. Shri Shankar Jayanti - April 21, 2026
Commemorates the birth anniversary of Adi Shankaracharya, the great philosopher and theologian who established the Advaita Vedanta philosophy.
Understanding the Malayalam Calendar System
The Malayalam calendar, also known as Kollavarsham (കൊല്ലവർഷം), is a solar calendar predominantly used in Kerala. April 2026 corresponds to Kolla Varsham 1201. The calendar year begins with Vishu in the month of Medam (Aries).
Malayalam Months and Their Significance:
- Meenam (മീനം): The 12th month corresponding to Pisces zodiac sign, representing the end of one cycle
- Medam (മേടം): The 1st month corresponding to Aries zodiac sign, marking new beginnings with Vishu
Nakshathrams in April 2026
The nakshathram (നക്ഷത്രം) or birth star plays a crucial role in Malayalam astrology and daily planning. Each day is governed by one of the 27 nakshathr ams, influencing the auspiciousness of various activities:
- Ashwathi to Bharani: Early April nakshathrams influencing pre-Vishu preparations
- Chathayam (ചതയം): April 14 - Vishu nakshathram, highly auspicious for new beginnings
- Bharani (ഭരണി): April 19 - Akshaya Tritiya nakshathram, excellent for wealth activities
- Thiruvathira (തിരുവാതിര): April 22 - Auspicious for Lord Shiva worship
Auspicious Days and Muhurthams
April 2026 offers several auspicious periods for important life events:
- Best days for weddings: April 19 (Akshaya Tritiya), April 22-23
- Best days for housewarming: April 15-16 (post-Vishu), April 19
- Best days for vehicle purchase: April 14-15 (Vishu), April 19 (Akshaya Tritiya)
- Best days for business inauguration: April 14 (Vishu), April 19 (Akshaya Tritiya)
- Best days for gold/jewelry purchase: April 19 (Akshaya Tritiya - most auspicious)
- Best days for educational admission: April 14-15 (Vishu), April 19
April 2026 Holidays and Observances
Public holidays and observances in April 2026:
- Sundays: April 5, 12, 19, 26
- Good Friday: April 3 (Friday) - Public Holiday
- Vishu: April 14-15 (Tuesday-Wednesday) - Public Holiday in Kerala
- Akshaya Tritiya: April 19 (Sunday) - Auspicious day
Agricultural Significance of Medam Month
The Medam month, which begins with Vishu, holds special agricultural importance:
- Marks the beginning of the summer harvest season
- Traditional time for rice harvesting in Kerala
- Preparation period for monsoon cultivation
- Auspicious time for sowing certain crops
- Mangoes and jackfruits come into season
How to Use This Calendar
This Malayalam calendar is designed for maximum utility and ease of use:
- Daily Reference: Check Malayalam dates, nakshathrams, and festivals for each day
- Festival Planning: Plan celebrations and religious observances with accurate dates
- Muhurtham Selection: Identify auspicious days for important life events
- Temple Visits: Schedule temple visits based on significant nakshathrams and festivals
- Cultural Connection: Stay connected with Kerala traditions wherever you are
- PDF Download: Download and print for offline reference
Vishu Preparations Checklist
Essential items and preparations for Vishu celebration:
- ✓ Uruli (bronze vessel) and rice for Vishukkani
- ✓ Konna flowers (golden shower tree blossoms)
- ✓ Gold ornaments or coins
- ✓ Fresh vegetables: cucumber, mango, jackfruit
- ✓ Coconut, betel leaves, arecanut
- ✓ Metal mirror (Valkannadi)
- ✓ Holy books (Ramayana/Bhagavad Gita)
- ✓ New clothes for family members
Traditional Vishu Sadya Menu
The traditional Vishu feast includes these authentic Kerala dishes:
- Rice varieties: Matta rice, red rice
- Sambar: Traditional lentil-based vegetable stew
- Rasam: Spiced tamarind soup
- Aviyal: Mixed vegetables in coconut and yogurt
- Thoran: Stir-fried vegetables with coconut
- Erissery: Pumpkin and lentil curry
- Olan: White pumpkin curry in coconut milk
- Pulissery: Mango or pineapple curry in yogurt
- Pachadi: Sweet and sour vegetable salad
- Kichadi: Cucumber in yogurt
- Pickles: Mango pickle, lime pickle
- Papadam and chips: Various crispy accompaniments
- Payasam: Sweet desserts - Paal Payasam, Pazham Pradhaman, Ada Pradhaman
Cultural Significance of Vishu
Vishu represents several deep cultural and spiritual meanings in Kerala tradition:
- Astronomical Event: Marks the sun's transit into Mesha Rashi (Aries), symbolizing the solar new year
- Equality and Unity: The festival transcends caste, creed, and economic divisions, celebrated equally by all
- Agricultural Prosperity: Signifies the harvest season and prayers for agricultural abundance
- New Beginnings: Represents fresh starts, new ventures, and renewed hope
- Family Bonding: Brings families together for celebrations and strengthens bonds
- Gratitude: Expression of thanks for past blessings and prayers for future prosperity
Vishu Celebrations Around the World
Malayalam-speaking communities worldwide celebrate Vishu with great enthusiasm:
- Kerala, India: Grand celebrations with public holidays, temple festivals, and cultural programs
- Gulf Countries: Large Malayalam diaspora organizes community Vishu celebrations with Sadya and cultural events
- United States: Kerala associations host Vishu gatherings in major cities
- United Kingdom: Community centers organize Vishu festivals with traditional food and programs
- Australia: Malayalam communities celebrate with family gatherings and cultural shows
- Singapore & Malaysia: Temple-based celebrations and community feasts
Important Temple Festivals in April 2026
Several major temple festivals occur during April 2026:
- Vishu Special Pujas: All major Kerala temples conduct special rituals on Vishu
- Bharani Festivals: April 19 (Kumbha Bharani at various temples)
- Thiruvathira Special Services: April 22 at Shiva temples
- Easter Services: April 5 at churches across Kerala
Weather and Season in April 2026
April marks the beginning of summer in Kerala:
- Temperature: Generally warm, ranging from 25-35°C
- Humidity: Moderate to high humidity levels
- Rainfall: Pre-monsoon showers may begin towards month-end
- Seasonal Fruits: Mangoes, jackfruits, watermelons are abundant
- Best Time: Early mornings and evenings are pleasant for outdoor activities
Health and Wellness Tips for April
Important health considerations during Medam month:
- Stay hydrated due to increasing temperatures
- Include seasonal fruits in your diet for natural cooling
- Practice moderation during Vishu feasting
- Maintain regular exercise routines despite celebrations
- Protect yourself from heat exposure during peak afternoon hours
- Continue traditional Ayurvedic practices for seasonal balance
Business and Financial Activities in April 2026
April 2026 offers excellent opportunities for financial and business activities:
- Akshaya Tritiya (April 19): Most auspicious day for gold purchases, investments, and starting new businesses
- Vishu (April 14): Traditional time for business accounting year closure and new beginnings
- Stock Market: Generally active during Vishu season with positive sentiment
- Real Estate: Good time for property purchases and registrations on auspicious days
- New Ventures: April 14 and 19 are particularly favorable for business inaugurations
Education and Academic Activities
Important dates for students and educational institutions:
- New academic year often begins post-Vishu in Kerala schools
- April 14 (Vishu) is auspicious for starting new educational courses
- Vidyarambham ceremonies traditionally performed on Vishu for children beginning their education
- Universities and colleges may have summer break during Vishu week
Digital Calendar Features
This online Malayalam calendar offers modern convenience:
- Mobile Responsive: Perfect viewing on smartphones, tablets, and desktops
- Color-Coded Days: Easy identification of Sundays (pink), holidays (yellow), and festivals (green)
- Navigation: Quick access to previous (March) and next (May) months
- PDF Download: Offline access with printable high-quality versions
- Detailed Information: Daily nakshathram, Malayalam dates, and festival details
- SEO Optimized: Easy to find through search engines
Why This Calendar is Essential
The Malayalam Calendar April 2026 is indispensable for:
- Festival Planning: Never miss important celebrations like Vishu and Akshaya Tritiya
- Astrological Reference: Plan important events according to nakshathrams and auspicious times
- Cultural Connection: Maintain ties with Kerala traditions and heritage
- Religious Observances: Schedule temple visits, fasting, and prayers accurately
- Family Coordination: Synchronize celebrations with family members across locations
- Business Decisions: Choose auspicious times for important financial activities
Historical Significance of Kollavarsham
The Malayalam calendar system has a rich historical background:
- Established in 825 CE, making it over 1200 years old
- Named after the historic port city of Kollam (Quilon) in Kerala
- Solar calendar system aligned with astronomical events and seasons
- Integral to Kerala's agricultural, cultural, and social systems
- Continues to guide religious observances and daily life in Kerala
- April 2026 corresponds to Kolla Varsham 1201
Vishu Superstitions and Beliefs
Traditional beliefs associated with Vishu celebration:
- The first sight (Vishukkani) determines the fortune for the entire year
- Children are woken up with eyes closed and led to the Vishukkani
- Seeing auspicious items first thing ensures prosperity
- Wearing new clothes brings good luck and fresh beginnings
- Giving Kaineettam (money) to youngsters brings blessings to elders
- Bursting firecrackers drives away negative energies
Kerala's Spring Season - Vasantham
April marks the peak of Vasantham (വസന്തം), Kerala's spring season:
- Konna Trees: Golden shower trees bloom magnificently, adorning Kerala with yellow blossoms
- Harvest Time: Rice and other crops are harvested during this period
- Natural Beauty: Landscape comes alive with flowers and lush greenery
- Pleasant Weather: Pre-monsoon period with warm but bearable temperatures
- Cultural Events: Numerous temple festivals and cultural programs
Traditional Wisdom for Medam Month
Ancient Malayalam proverbs and wisdom about Medam month:
- "മേടം കയറിയാൽ വെയിൽ കൊയ്യാം" - When Medam begins, expect intense summer heat
- Medam month is considered ideal for starting new ventures
- Traditional time for conducting weddings and housewarming ceremonies
- Auspicious period for planting certain crops and trees
- Favorable for spiritual practices and temple visits
Connecting Generations Through Vishu
Vishu serves as a bridge between generations:
- Teaching Traditions: Parents teach children about Vishukkani arrangement and significance
- Storytelling: Elders share stories about Vishu celebrations from their childhood
- Recipe Sharing: Traditional cooking methods passed from grandmothers to grandchildren
- Language Preservation: Malayalam words and customs learned through festival celebrations
- Family Unity: Multi-generational gatherings strengthen family bonds
Modern Vishu Celebrations
How Vishu has evolved in contemporary times:
- Digital Greetings: WhatsApp, social media messages replace traditional cards
- Virtual Celebrations: Video calls connect families separated by distance
- Online Shopping: E-commerce platforms offer Vishu special deals
- Restaurant Sadyas: Many choose to dine at restaurants instead of home cooking
- Eco-Friendly Practices: Growing awareness about sustainable celebrations
- Community Events: Apartment complexes organize collective Vishu celebrations
Vishu and Kerala Tourism
Vishu season attracts visitors to Kerala:
- Festival Tourism: Tourists experience authentic Kerala Vishu celebrations
- Temple Visits: Major temples see increased footfall during Vishu
- Cultural Programs: Special performances and exhibitions organized statewide
- Culinary Tourism: Food enthusiasts seek authentic Vishu Sadya experiences
- Nature Tourism: Konna blooms create picturesque landscapes attracting photographers
Environmental Considerations
Eco-friendly Vishu celebration tips:
- Use natural, locally-sourced flowers for Vishukkani
- Minimize firecracker use to reduce pollution
- Choose organic vegetables and fruits for Sadya
- Use traditional banana leaves instead of plastic plates
- Donate excess food to avoid wastage
- Plant trees as part of new year celebrations
Calendar for Malayali Diaspora
This calendar is especially valuable for Malayalis living outside Kerala:
- Stay connected with Kerala traditions and cultural heritage wherever you are
- Plan celebrations according to traditional dates and nakshathrams
- Teach younger generations about Malayalam calendar system and festivals
- Coordinate with family in Kerala for ceremonies and events
- Maintain cultural identity through traditional observances
- Access anytime, anywhere with mobile-friendly design
Additional Resources
Explore more Malayalam calendar resources on our website:
- Complete Malayalam Calendar 2026 with all 12 months
- Individual monthly calendars: January through December 2026
- Festival guide with detailed celebration information
- Nakshathram guide with characteristics and significance
- Muhurtham calculator for auspicious time selection
- Daily Panchangam with detailed astrological information
- Rashi Phalam (horoscope) based on Malayalam calendar
- Traditional Kerala recipes for festival preparation
- Temple festival calendar for major Kerala temples
Stay tuned to our website for more updates, festival guides, traditional recipes, cultural insights, and authentic Malayalam calendar resources. May this Malayalam Calendar April 2026 bring prosperity, health, happiness, and divine blessings to your life! May Vishu usher in a year filled with success and joy! 🙏
ഏപ്രിൽ 2026 നിങ്ങൾക്ക് ഐശ്വര്യവും സമൃദ്ധിയും നൽകട്ടെ!
വിഷു ആശംസകൾ! 🌼
May April 2026 bring you prosperity and abundance!
Happy Vishu!