A Day Of Festivities

0500 Hrs Chennai

I wake up to see 'Vishu Kani', a traditional display of prosperity to be witnessed first thing on New Year's Day, in the hope that the remaining days of the year will be equally auspicious and prosperous.

0545 Hrs Chennai

I go back to sleep. 

0630 Hrs Chennai

I wake up, close my eyes and navigate myself to the Kani. Do Kani Kaanum again. Then realize I already did it once this morning. 

0645 Hrs Chennai

Sun's up! And the Son is also up! I close his eyes with my hand against his wishes. Take him to Kani Kaanal. He sees the elaborate display and goes "Haayeee" and claps his hands with a big beaming smile and enthusiasm only kids can show. He then does a 'Namaste' to Ummachi. And his patented-copyrighted-YouCannotDoItEvenIfYouTried Namaskaram with legs folded. 

This. Makes. It. All. Worthwhile. 

Until his hand goes for the Vilakku (lamp)! I quickly rescue each from the other and deposit him back in bed for Paayi (Paal or Milk)

0700 Hrs Chennai

She is accompanied by me and the son to Kani Kaanal. 

0715 Hrs Chennai until further notice...
Wish friends, family on Vishu, Tamil New Year, Pohela Baishakh, Baisakhi, Good Friday, Ambedkar Jayanthi...

Boy, one day, so many festivals. Some holidays wasted there!


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