Significance Of Puthandu: Tamil New Year

Puthandu is the term for Tamil new year. It is the celebration of the first day of the Tamil new year. The new year celebration in India according to the Hindu calendars in different parts of the country usually takes place in the months of March-April. The country seems very vibrant during this time of the year as the different cultures celebrate their new year in their own unique way.

Coming back to Puthandu, the people of Tamil Nadu celebrate their new year generally on April 14 according to the Gregorian calendar. April 14 happens to be the beginning of new year for most of the regions like Assam, West Bengal, Punjab, Manipur, Odisha etc. Hence, it is the time of celebration for almost half of India.

According to the Tamil calendar, Puthandu is celebrated on the first day of the Chitterai month. People celebrate the festival with great joy and enthusiasm. Take a look at the observances and significance of Puthandu.

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Observances Of Puthandu
On the eve of Puthandu, a tray is arranged with three fruits (mango, banana and jackfruit), betel leaves, areca nuts, gold/silver jewellery, money, flowers and a mirror. This tray has to be viewed early in the morning soon after waking up. Then people take early morning bath and offer pongal to the Gods. Many people also visit temples to seek blessings so that the new year turns out fruitful for them.

In Madurai, Puthandu is celebrated in a grand way. A huge exhibition known as the Chitterai Porutkaatchi is held at the Meenakshi Amman temple. Huge feasts are held in almost all Tamil homes and the entrance of the houses are decorated with elaborate kolams or rangoli.

Significance Of Puthandu
Puthandu is the day of new beginnings. People celebrate the festival with joy and hope that the new year will bring new opportunities and growth in their lives. This day is celebrated by some communities with neem flowers and raw mangoes to symbolize growth and prosperity.

Hence the auspicious day of Puthandu is celebrated with great enthusiasm all over Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka.