The bright yellow blooms of Kanikonna are a symbol of prosperity and joy to the people of Kerala. Kanikonna or Golden Shower tree (Cassia fistula) is intrinsically connected with the festival of Vishu, celebrated on the first day of the month of Medam, according to the Malayalam calendar. The Kanikonna flowers forms the main part of Vishukkani, a set of auspicious objects arranged at homes and temples on the previous night of the festival day. On the dawn of Vishu, the very first sight for people is the Vishukkani that is believed to make the New Year prosperous. No wonder then that this is the state flower of Kerala.

Come Vishu, the Kanikonna trees get decked up in radiant gold, a sight that inspires the people of God’s Own Country to look forward to a prosperous and joyous future. The tree is also known as Indian Laburnum.