Puthandu 2023: History, Importance & Significance Of The Tamil New Year

Puthandu, also known as the Tamil New Year, is one of the most significant cultural festivals celebrated in the state of Tamil Nadu, as well as in Sri Lanka and other Tamil-speaking communities around the world. The festival marks the first day of the Tamil calendar and falls on April 14 every year.

As we approach Puthandu 2023, it's worth delving into the history and significance of this ancient celebration.

History Of Puthandu

The origins of Puthandu can be traced back to the Sangam period, a golden age of Tamil literature and culture that lasted from around 300 BCE to 300 CE. The festival is believed to have been celebrated by the ancient Tamils to mark the start of the agricultural season, as it falls during the month of Chithirai, which is traditionally associated with the blooming of flowers and the harvest of crops.

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In addition to its agricultural roots, Puthandu is also steeped in religious and cultural significance. The day is believed to have been chosen as the Tamil New Year because it is the day when the sun transitions into the first zodiac sign of the Tamil calendar, Aries. In Hindu mythology, this day is associated with the creation of the universe by Lord Brahma.

Importance Of Puthandu

Puthandu is a time of new beginnings and fresh starts, and it is marked by a range of traditional rituals and customs. One of the most important traditions associated with the festival is the preparation of a special dish called "maanga pachadi." This dish is made with six different flavors that represent the various emotions one might experience in life, such as bitterness, sweetness, and sourness. The idea behind the dish is to remind people that life is a mix of both good and bad experiences, and that they should be prepared to face both with equanimity.

Another important ritual associated with Puthandu is the reading of the Panchangam, a Hindu almanac that predicts astrological events and provides guidance on auspicious timings for various activities. The Panchangam is consulted by people on Puthandu to plan important events such as weddings, housewarmings, and business ventures.

Significance Of Tamil New Year

Puthandu is more than just a celebration of the Tamil New Year; it is a symbol of Tamil culture and identity. The festival is an opportunity for Tamils around the world to come together and celebrate their shared heritage and traditions. It is also a time for reflection and introspection, as people take stock of their lives and set goals for the coming year.

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In recent years, the celebration of Puthandu has taken on added significance as a way of asserting Tamil cultural and political rights. In Sri Lanka, where Tamils have long faced discrimination and marginalization, Puthandu has become an important symbol of resistance and cultural pride. In Tamil Nadu, the celebration of Puthandu is seen as a way of preserving and promoting the state's unique culture and traditions in the face of increasing homogenization and globalization.