The Tamil calendar, a vital part of Tamil culture and tradition, intricately weaves together the community’s religious, cultural, and social events. Used primarily in the Tamil-speaking regions of India and Sri Lanka, this calendar not only marks the passage of time but also celebrates the unique and vibrant heritage of the Tamil people. In this article, we will delve into the details of the Tamil calendar, highlighting key events and holidays, and providing a detailed explanation of each.
Details About Tamil Calendar
The Tamil calendar is a solar and sidereal Hindu calendar used predominantly in Tamil Nadu and among Tamil communities worldwide. It is deeply intertwined with Tamil traditions, with each month and festival having cultural and religious significance. The calendar follows the movements of the sun and moon to mark time, ensuring that festivals and events occur at the most astrologically auspicious times.
Calendar of Events and Holidays
| Month | Date | Event/Holiday |
| Chithirai | April 14 | Tamil New Year (Puthandu) |
| Vaikasi | May 14 | Vaikasi Visakam |
| Aani | June 15 | Aani Thirumanjanam |
| Aadi | July 17 | Aadi Perukku |
| Aavani | August 17 | Aavani Avittam |
| Purattasi | September 17 | Purattasi Sani |
| Aipasi | October 18 | Deepavali |
| Karthigai | November 16 | Karthigai Deepam |
| Margazhi | December 16 | Thiruvathirai |
| Thai | January 14 | Pongal |
| Maasi | February 12 | Maha Shivaratri |
| Panguni | March 14 | Panguni Uthiram |
Specific Details About All Events/Holidays
Tamil New Year (Puthandu)
Celebrated on April 14th, Tamil New Year marks the first day of the Tamil month Chithirai. It is a time for new beginnings, family gatherings, and special prayers.
Vaikasi Visakam
Held in May, this festival celebrates the birth of Lord Murugan. Devotees gather at temples, particularly the famous Murugan temples, to participate in rituals and processions.
Aani Thirumanjanam
Observed in June, this festival involves the ceremonial cleansing and anointment of the deity with oils and perfumes, symbolizing purity and devotion.
Aadi Perukku
Celebrated in July, Aadi Perukku honors the life-giving properties of water, especially rivers. People perform rituals near water bodies to express gratitude for a bountiful harvest.
Aavani Avittam
In August, Aavani Avittam is a significant ritual for the Brahmin community, involving the renewal of the sacred thread and recitation of Vedic hymns.
Purattasi Sani
During the month of Purattasi, particularly on Saturdays, devotees observe fasts and special prayers to Lord Venkateswara, seeking prosperity and blessings.
Deepavali
One of the most widely celebrated festivals, Deepavali in October signifies the victory of light over darkness. It is marked by lighting lamps, bursting firecrackers, and sharing sweets.
Karthigai Deepam
In November, Karthigai Deepam is celebrated by lighting rows of oil lamps, symbolizing the dispelling of darkness and ignorance.
Thiruvathirai
Falling in December, this festival is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is celebrated with great fervor, particularly in the Tamil month of Margazhi.
Pongal
Celebrated in January, Pongal is a four-day harvest festival. It includes cooking the newly harvested rice and thanking the Sun God for a bountiful harvest.
Maha Shivaratri
Observed in February, this night-long festival involves prayers and fasting in honor of Lord Shiva, symbolizing the overcoming of darkness and ignorance.
Panguni Uthiram
In March, Panguni Uthiram is celebrated with grand processions and rituals, commemorating the divine marriages of several deities including Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
The Tamil calendar is not just a system of timekeeping but a cultural treasure trove that reflects the rich traditions, rituals, and festivals of Tamil society. Each event and holiday is a vibrant celebration of life, faith, and community, making the Tamil calendar an integral part of Tamil identity.
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FAQ
What is the significance of Tamil New Year?
Tamil New Year, celebrated on April 14th, marks the beginning of the Tamil calendar year and is a time for family gatherings, new beginnings, and special prayers.
When is Deepavali celebrated in the Tamil calendar?
Deepavali is celebrated in the Tamil month of Aipasi, which usually falls in October.
What is Aadi Perukku?
Aadi Perukku, celebrated in July, is a festival dedicated to the life-giving properties of water, where rituals are performed near rivers and water bodies to thank for a bountiful harvest.
How is Pongal celebrated?
Pongal is a four-day harvest festival in January where people cook the newly harvested rice, offer thanks to the Sun God, and celebrate with family and community activities.
What is the significance of Karthigai Deepam?
Karthigai Deepam, celebrated in November, involves lighting rows of oil lamps to symbolize the dispelling of darkness and ignorance.
By understanding and appreciating the Tamil calendar, one gains deeper insight into the vibrant and diverse traditions of the Tamil community.