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It’s funny how small things can make your day, bring that smile forth many a time 
An envelope enclosing a copy of my Colgate Palmolive appointment order and a sweet letter from grandparents bore a Rs 20 stamp that brought forth fond memories … it depicted the golden-yellow blossoms of the Kani Konna poovu…
Amaltaas in Hindi/Urdu language
The sight of Konna (Cassia fistula/ The Golden Shower Tree) poovu (flower) in late March-April heralds Vishu, the Malayalam new year, which typically falls on 13th/14th April. The flowers are an integral part of the Vishu Kani – the first sight (Kani) a Malayali sees on the New Year Day.
Vishu Kani
As with everything Indian, we have a sweet tale associated with why the Konna poovu is bestowed the honor and not just any other flower in the tiny-winy spring season:
Long-ago-but-not-so-very-long-ago, in the holy temple town of Guruvayoor,lived Manjula a 5 year old girl. Hailing from the Varisiara community, her mother used to string flower garlands for the deity. In that tender age, Manjula developed a strong attachment to Guruvayoorapan (Lord Krishna)- it is said that she was one of the few devotees who could actually behold the Lord.
So one day, little Manjula desired the yellow raiment worn by the Lord, which He gladly presented to her. But the envious temple-priests proclaimed that she’d stolen it and created a huge ruckus. Disgusted that her simple wish had caused such a commotion, she decided to returned the gift. The Lord refused to accept the same ; it was tantamount to insulting His beloved Manjula. As a testimony of her devotion, He flung the garment outside, which on touching the ground, blossomed into the Konna tree.
Splendid isn’t it ? As said earlier, can’t help but
