Tamil Nadu prepares to celebrate Puthandu, the Tamil New Year, also known as Varusha Pirappu or Puthurusham, as the new year dawns in other areas of India. This celebration marks the start of the Tamil month of Chithirai and ushers in a new year full of blessings and optimism.
Puthandu will be celebrated this year on April 14, 2025, which is the Tamil calendar’s first day of Chithirai. According to the Drik Panchang, the Sun’s changeover, known as the Sankranti moment, is predicted to occur around 3:30 AM.
In Tamil tradition, puthandu has a deep spiritual significance. This day is said to be the day when Lord Brahma started creating the cosmos. In addition, legend says that Lord Indra came to earth to provide joy and hope. It is regarded as a very auspicious day to start enterprises, start new endeavors, or make significant life changes. Prayer, introspection, and the hope for peace and prosperity all year long permeate the day.
Tamil families decorate their houses with flowers and draw kolams, or traditional rangoli, at their doorsteps to begin the day. Family members give each other heartfelt greetings and trade flowers, fruits, and treats. It’s a time for community connection, thankfulness, and togetherness.
Making mango pachadi, a special delicacy cooked with raw mango, neem flowers, jaggery, tamarind, and red chillies, is one of the main customs. The many emotions of life—sweet, sour, bitter, and spicy—are symbolised by this meal. In order to ask for blessings for a successful year ahead, families traditionally prepare special pongal as a sacrifice to the gods.
Puthandu is more than simply a calendar shift; it’s a celebration of life, rebirth, and the virtues of hope and community. It serves as a lovely reminder that every year has the opportunity to embrace optimism and make significant life changes.
