Puthandu: Celebrating the Tamil New Year

Puthandu, also known as Tamil New Year, is a significant festival celebrated by Tamil communities worldwide. It marks the beginning of the Tamil calendar year and is celebrated on the first day of Chithirai, the first month of the Tamil calendar. Puthandu usually falls on the 14th of April, and it is a time for new beginnings, resolutions, and reflection on the past year.

History and Significance The history of Puthandu dates back to ancient times, where it was celebrated as a harvest festival. According to Tamil mythology, Lord Brahma created the world on this day, and it is believed that the first rays of the sun fall on the temple of Madurai on this day. It is also the day when the great Tamil king Chola starts his conquests.

Traditions The festivities for Puthandu start a few days before the actual day, where people clean their homes, decorate them with flowers, mango leaves, and kolams. Kolams are intricate designs made with rice flour, and they are believed to bring prosperity and good luck to the household.

On the day of Puthandu, Tamilians wake up early, take a bath, wear new clothes, and visit the temple to offer prayers to the gods. People prepare a special dish called "Mango Pachadi," which is a combination of six different flavors that represent the different emotions one might experience in life.

In addition to the Mango Pachadi, other traditional dishes like Payasam, Vadai, and Thayir Sadam are also prepared for the festival. It is also customary to exchange gifts and offer charity to the poor and needy.

Cultural Festivities Puthandu is also a time for cultural festivities, including traditional dances, music performances, and art exhibitions. Many Tamilians also celebrate Puthandu by flying kites, which is a popular activity during this time of the year.

Conclusion Puthandu is a joyous celebration that brings together Tamilians from all around the world to celebrate the beginning of a new year, to give thanks for the blessings of the past year, and to look forward to a prosperous future. It is a time to embrace new beginnings, to cherish old traditions, and to appreciate the richness and diversity of Tamil culture.