The Kani consists of auspicious articles like fruits, gold coins and the ubiquitous bright yellow flowers of the Kanikonna tree. The practice on the Vishu day is that early morning the eldest female member leads the other members, one by one blindfolded, before the kani. Then, the eldest member of the family gives 'Kaineettam' to the younger ones, relatives and servants. After the holy week of prayer and austerity, special masses were held in churches across the state where believers congregated in large numbers. Those attended the Easter mass returned home with lighted candles and blessed water.
Easter symbolizes a new life full of hope and light.
The Kerala Pentecostal Writers' Forum, an organisation of Malayalee writers in North America, has invited entries for their Literature Award. The award is to be given to the best creation based on Christianity published in the year 2000. Essays, stories, poetry, features and news reports written in English and Malayalam will be considered for the award. The award will be distributed at the special Malayalee Pentecostal conference scheduled to be held California in June. Writers from India and North America will participate in the conference.