In plain words
In the old days, when anyone got sores, they would put Cow dung on the sores and bind them. But the people of the modern age all say that if you do that, it will turn ‘septic’. No, no. Put Cow dung on a sore and bind it, and it heals in three days. Such sacred power is there in Cow dung. Cow's urine too is very sacred. Whenever ‘the Mother’ comes, they mix cow's urine in water and sprinkle it on everyone. This brings great well-being. Our people of Bhārata must develop such sacred customs still further. Let anyone think what he likes; we must conduct ourselves to our own inner satisfaction. We must follow our own customs. To nourish our customs, to increase our wealth and grain, to share them with others and so to experience joy: that is the very meaning of the festival of Viṣu.
Recognise what is special about Viṣu, and live by it
In Kerala our ancient customs stand firm even today. Whenever even a small auspicious event takes place in their homes, the people of Kerala pour rice into a plate, set a lamp on it and decorate all round it beautifully. A custom of this kind is very auspicious for a home. But we must not give importance to decoration alone; we must give importance to practice. We must understand well what is special about Viṣu. We must recognise the custom that lies within this festival and live by it. We must give respect to the person before us, and receive respect. The day when every home brims over with wealth and grain: that day alone is the true festival of Viṣu. When Viṣu comes, it is not enough to greet one another with ‘Wish you a happy New Year’. Each of us must truly work for the other's welfare. You must share your joy with others. Giving joy and receiving joy... this is the very spirit of Viṣu. Unless we give joy, we cannot receive it from others. Give and take.