Puthandu 2024: Check date, time, rituals and other details here

Puthandu, also known as the Tamil New Year, is celebrated on April 14, 2024. This auspicious occasion signifies the commencement of the Tamil New Year, observed with immense enthusiasm and zeal by Tamilians across the nation. Falling on the initial day of the Tamil month of Chitterai, it marks the onset of new beginnings and is revered as a time for joyous festivities.

Puthandu 2024: Date and Time
Sankranti Moment on Puthandu- April 13, 2024 at 9:15


Puthandu 2024: Significance
Puthandu carries profound religious significance within the Tamil community, marking the commencement of the Tamil New Year. Celebrated with utmost joy and fervor, it holds a special place in the hearts of devotees. According to Hindu scriptures, it is believed that Lord Indra descended to Earth on this day to bestow peace and tranquility upon humanity. Another legend speaks of Lord Brahma initiating the creation of the universe on this auspicious occasion.

Observing this sacred day, people flock to temples to seek blessings for prosperity and fortune. It's considered highly auspicious for commencing new ventures, housewarming ceremonies (griha pravesh), mundan ceremonies, and other significant activities.

In Vedic astrology, Puthandu is celebrated based on the position of the Sun. Since the Sun transitions on April 13th, the subsequent day is celebrated as Puthandu. This positioning symbolizes equilibrium between the southern and northern hemispheres, signifying harmony between humanity and nature.

How Puthandu is celebrated?
During the auspicious occasion of Puthandu, worshippers flock to temples to offer prayers to the divine. It's a day of familial bonding, where elders bestow gifts upon children. Additionally, many individuals pay homage to their ancestral deities, known as Kul Devta and Kul Devi. Tamilian tradition also includes the observance of Tharpanam, a ritual where prayers are offered to ancestors for their salvation.

This day serves as a moment of gratitude, as devotees express thanks to the divine for the opportunity of renewal and fresh beginnings.

Puthandu 2024: Rituals
1. Wake up early in the morning and take a herbal bath with turmeric before starting rituals.
2. Start decorating their house with Kolam to welcome prosperity.
3. Wear traditional clothes and greet each other.
4. Sing devotional songs along with their family, friends and relatives.
5. Pay visits to temples to express gratitude to God.
6. Prepare a special type of dish which is known as Pachadi and offer that drink to God first and then serve it to the family members.
7. Eat sattvik food on this sacred day.
8. The oldest member of the family reads the panchagam which is an important part of the ritual.

(with ToI inputs)