Tamil New Year

Tamil New Year (Puthandu)

Significance and History
Tamil New Year (Puthandu), also known as Chithirai New Year, marks the beginning of the Tamil calendar year. It typically falls on April 14th every year and is a major cultural and religious celebration for Tamils across the world, especially in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The day marks the start of the Chithirai month in the Tamil solar calendar, symbolizing a new beginning, growth, and prosperity.

The celebration of Tamil New Year is deeply rooted in the Hindu tradition. It is based on the astronomical position of the Sun, which enters Aries (Mesha) on this day. This event signifies the transition from darkness to light, symbolizing knowledge, wisdom, and auspicious beginnings. Tamil New Year is believed to have been celebrated since ancient times, marking the victory of good over evil, and has been mentioned in Tamil literature and historical texts.

Traditional Observances:

• Kanni Pooja (First Fruit Offering): The day begins with the Kanni Pooja, where families place auspicious items such as fruits, flowers, and money on a tray. The tray also contains an image of Lord Ganesha or other deities. This offering symbolizes new beginnings and prosperity.
• Visiting Temples: Devotees visit temples on Tamil New Year to seek blessings from the deities, especially Lord Vishnu and Lord Ganesha, for peace, happiness, and prosperity in the coming year.
• Traditional Feast (Sadhya): A grand feast (Sadhya) is prepared, consisting of various vegetarian dishes like sambar, rasam, avial, and payasam (a sweet dessert). Mangoes (fresh and in pickles) are also commonly consumed, symbolizing new beginnings.
• Kolam (Rangoli) Decorations: Women decorate the entrance of their homes with beautiful kolam (rangoli) designs made with rice flour, which are believed to invite prosperity and remove negativity.
• Wearing New Clothes: Wearing new clothes is a key tradition, symbolizing a fresh start for the new year.
• Cultural Performances: Traditional music, dance, and art performances, such as Bharatanatyam or Carnatic music, are common during this festival.

Celebration at Krushna Dham Delaware
At Krushna Dham Delaware, we celebrate Tamil New Year (Puthandu) with reverence and joy, honoring the cultural and spiritual traditions of Tamil Nadu. Our celebrations include a blend of devotional rituals, community gatherings, and cultural activities, welcoming the new year with gratitude and joy.

For Tamil New Year (Puthandu):

• Morning Prayers and Rituals: The day begins with special Pujas to worship Lord Vishnu, Lord Ganesha, and other deities, praying for peace, prosperity, and well-being in the new year.
• Kanni Pooja and Offerings: We conduct the Kanni Pooja ritual with an offering of fruits, flowers, and sacred items, inviting divine blessings into our lives.
• Traditional Tamil Feast (Sadhya): We offer a special Tamil feast with traditional dishes such as sambar, rasam, avial, payasam, and seasonal fruits like mango.
• Kolam Decorations: The temple grounds and our homes are decorated with beautiful kolam designs, welcoming prosperity and harmony.
• Cultural Celebrations: Traditional Tamil music, dance performances, and cultural programs are organized, with special performances of Bharatanatyam and Carnatic music to celebrate the cultural richness of Tamil Nadu.
• Community Gathering: Families gather at the temple to celebrate together, exchange greetings, and participate in community activities, fostering a spirit of unity and goodwill.

Join us at Krushna Dham Delaware to celebrate Tamil New Year (Puthandu), experience the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu, and seek blessings for a prosperous and joyous year ahead!