Vishu and Chingam 1 are both significant occasions in the
Kerala calendar, but they mark different events.
Vishu: Vishu is the Malayalam Zodiac New Year festival
celebrated in the state of Kerala, India, and by the Malayali diaspora around
the world. It usually falls in the month of April (Medam month in the Malayalam
calendar), specifically on the first day of the Medam month. Vishu is marked by
rituals, feasting, and the Vishu Kani, which is the first sight upon waking up
on Vishu morning. It's a day of new beginnings, prosperity, and the traditional
way to kickstart the Malayalam Zodiac New Year.
Chingam 1: Chingam is the first month of the Malayalam
calendar, and Chingam 1 is the first day of this month. This usually falls in
the month of August. Chingam 1 is significant because it marks the beginning of
the harvest season in Kerala and is celebrated as the Kerala New Year day by
the Malayali community. It's also considered an auspicious day for new
beginnings and is celebrated with various cultural events, feasts, and rituals.
In summary, while Vishu marks the beginning of the Malayalam New Year and is celebrated in April, Chingam 1 marks the start of the harvest season and the first day of the month of Chingam, typically in August. Both are important occasions in the Kerala calendar, each with its own set of traditions and significance.