From artificial kanikonna to Krishna idols: Vishu markets bloom with Kani picks

With Vishu approaching, markets across Kerala are bursting into colour. Golden kanikonna garlands, gleaming Krishna idols and neatly packed Vishu Kani kits are lining shop shelves as families prepare for the auspicious ritual that marks the Malayalam New Year.Alongside traditional items, newer alternatives — from artificial flowers to fibre idols and ready-made Kani combos — are also becoming popular.Krishna idols for every budgetFrom roadside stalls to major bazaars in Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram, idols of Lord Krishna are available across price ranges.Clay, paper pulp, fibre and metal idols are widely stocked. Prices start from about ₹150 for small idols, while black metal variants cost around ₹1,000 and above, depending on size.

Bronze idols can go upwards of ₹3,000.

Artificial kanikonna gains groundWith seasonal changes affecting the flowering cycle of the kanikonna tree, artificial flowers are seeing brisk sales.“The flower blooms early now and with summer rain they shed quickly. During Vishu, the natural flowers are available only in small amounts,” says Sreenath, a shopkeeper at Chalai market. “People prefer artificial ones, just like they prefer Krishna idols made of durable materials that can last for years.”

Ready-made Vishu Kani kitsMany retailers have begun offering complete Vishu Kani kits, making the preparation easier for families. Jayesh T Nair, deputy general manager at a Kochi hypermarket, says the shift is partly due to the difficulty in sourcing konna flowers during the festival season. “We have introduced Vishu Kani kits priced at ₹444 and ₹749, which include all the items needed for a family to arrange the Kani,” he says.

The store is also offering Vishu sadhya takeaway packs with about 25 dishes, he adds.New additions to the KaniInterestingly, items associated with the legend of Lord Krishna — such as flutes and uri (hanging pots) — are also finding their way into modern Vishu Kani arrangements.Online combos gain tractionOnline sellers are also seeing strong demand for ready-made sets. “Our combo includes a Krishna idol, artificial kanikonna, artificial banana, manjadi, a lamp and a neryathu,” says Sruthy S, who sells Vishu Kani sets online.

“The medium-sized set costs ₹750 and can be customised depending on the customer’s requirements.”Many households also add fruits, vegetables, rice and flowers, while some include a traditional uruli to give the arrangement a classic touch.Valkannadi in demandWhile the traditional Aranmula Kannadi continues to be prized, the more affordable Valkannadi is also witnessing strong demand. Available in plastic and metal casings, these mirrors offer budget-friendly options for households preparing their Vishu Kani.Heritage touch: Palm-leaf manuscriptsReplicas of palm-leaf manuscripts, inspired by Kerala’s temple traditions, are also becoming part of Vishu Kani arrangements. Rajesh Kumar R, who sells such replicas in Kochi, says demand rises during festive seasons. “We create replicas of palm-leaf manuscripts using durable paper. Since these manuscripts are associated with rituals, people include them in Vishu Kani, Ashtamangalyam as well as Navratri puja,” he says.

The 2026 Vishu Kani basket:Artificial Kani Konna: ₹20–₹35Flute: ₹100Uri pots: ₹150–₹200Artificial Vishu Kani (medium): ₹750Valkannadi (hand mirror): ₹50 and above (depending on size) Bamboo Para (measuring container): ₹70 (available in metals too)(With inputs from Anna Mathews)