Kerala Expats in UAE Celebrate Vishu Amid Peace

Apr 15, 2026

88 min

Apr 15, 2026 15:30

Kerala expats in UAE celebrate Vishu in peace, thankful for safety amid regional uncertainties

## Celebrating Vishu in the UAE

Kerala expatriates in the UAE marked Vishu, the Hindu New Year, with traditional festivities, expressing gratitude for the safety and stability they enjoy in the region. Despite geopolitical tensions, the community celebrated with rituals, ethnic attire, and the elaborate vegetarian feast known as sadhya.

## Traditional Festivities

Vishu, the second most significant festival for Malayalis after Onam, began with the Vishukkani, an auspicious display of fruits, vegetables, and other items meant to bring prosperity. Many residents observed these rituals at home before heading to work, dressed in traditional clothing. Restaurants offering sadhya were fully booked, with many planning ahead to secure a spot.

## Home Celebrations

Some families chose to recreate the Vishu experience at home. Rakhina Sanoop, a Dubai-based homeopath, prepared a traditional sadhya, emphasizing the importance of maintaining cultural traditions even during challenging times. Her family celebrated together, appreciating the safety provided by the UAE.

## Family and Community

For Sumitra Roy, a public relations director, this year's Vishu was special as her parents, visiting from India, decided to stay amid regional tensions. Her mother played a key role in sharing cultural stories and traditions with her grandchildren, making the celebration memorable.

## First Vishu in the UAE

For newcomers like Roshni and Udhayan, this Vishu was particularly meaningful as they celebrated with their young son in Dubai. They prepared the Vishukkani and sadhya at home, cherishing the chance to create new memories in a new environment.

## Community Support

The festival also inspired acts of kindness, with community groups distributing traditional Vishu attire to those in need. Initiatives like these highlight the spirit of unity and gratitude among the Kerala expats in the UAE, who continue to pray for lasting peace in the region.

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