The Thiruvarur Car Festival, also known as the “Rathotsavam,” is a popular religious festival celebrated in the town of Thiruvarur in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Thiruvarur is known for its rich cultural and religious heritage, particularly its association with the famous Thyagaraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Thyagaraja, a form of Lord Shiva.
The Car Festival is one of the most significant events in the temple’s calendar and typically occurs in the Tamil month of Chithirai (March-April). During the festival, the presiding deity of the Thyagaraja Temple, Lord Thyagaraja, is taken out in a grand procession on a huge chariot or “ratha.” This chariot is beautifully decorated and is an integral part of the festivities.
Aazhi Ther:
The ‘Aazhi Ther’ stands as the largest temple chariot in all of Asia. It starts at 30 feet in height but, after being adorned with bamboo poles and vibrant cloth during decoration, it soars to a towering 96 feet. The ‘kalasam’ alone adds 6 feet to this height. This transformation increases the chariot’s original weight of 220 tonnes to 350 tonnes. Interestingly, the enormous chariot at Valluvar Kottam in Chennai was constructed following the blueprint of the Tiruvarur ‘Aazhi Ther.’
Duration and Schedule of the Thiruvarur Car Festival:
The Thiruvarur Car Festival typically spans several days, and the main event, where the deity’s chariot is pulled through the streets, usually falls on the ninth day of the Tamil month of Chithirai. The festival often lasts for a week or more, with various rituals, ceremonies, and cultural performances taking place in the lead-up to the chariot procession.
Chariot and Decorations:
The centerpiece of the festival is the massive chariot, often referred to as the “Ratha.” This intricately designed and artistically decorated chariot is a sight to behold. It is adorned with colorful draperies, flowers, and ornamental decorations, creating a visually stunning spectacle. The chariot itself is a symbol of architectural and artistic excellence.
Devotee Participation:
Devotees and pilgrims actively participate in the festival. Pulling the chariot is considered a sacred duty and a mark of devotion. It is believed that participating in the chariot pulling purifies one’s soul and brings blessings. Thousands of people come forward to join in the effort, collectively pulling the heavy chariot through the streets of Thiruvarur.
Cultural Celebration:
In addition to the religious aspects, the Thiruvarur Car Festival also features a rich cultural program. Traditional music, including Carnatic music, and classical dance performances are organized to entertain the crowd and celebrate the region’s cultural heritage.
Crowds and Festivities:
Due to the large gathering and the enormous chariot, authorities pay special attention to security and crowd management to ensure the safety of participants and spectators.
Epilogue:
The Thiruvarur Car Festival is not only a religious event but also a celebration of art, culture, and community. It’s a time when people come together to express their devotion, witness stunning visual displays, and partake in the region’s rich traditions and rituals.
Tamil Puthandu, known as Puthuvarusham or Tamil New Year, signifies the commencement of the Tamil New Year. Observed in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and by Tamil communities globally, this celebration traditionally falls on either April 14th or 15th, aligning with the inception of the Tamil month of Chithirai.
Customs and traditions:
Kani: On the morning of Tamil Puthandu, people traditionally wake up early and view the “Kani,” which is an arrangement of auspicious items like gold or silver jewelry, fruits, vegetables, betel leaves, flowers, and a mirror. The belief is that setting eyes on these items first thing in the morning will bring good luck and prosperity for the year ahead.
Mango: The Mango, often referred to as the “king of fruits”, is a symbol of abundance and fertility. It plays a central role in Tamil Puthandu celebrations. People prepare a special dish called “Mango Pachadi,” which is a mix of various flavors, representing the different aspects of life – sweet, sour, bitter, and tangy.
Traditional Dress: During this festive time, individuals don new garments, often opting for vibrant colors. They visit temples to offer their prayers and seek blessings for a prosperous year ahead.
Festive Feasting: Sumptuous feasts play a central role in Tamil Puthandu festivities. Families gather to savor a lavish assortment of traditional Tamil dishes, which may feature delicacies such as rice, sambar, rasam, poriyal, payasam, in addition to the emblematic Mango Pachadi.
Cultural Events: Cultural programs, including music and dance performances, are organized in many places to celebrate Tamil Puthandu. Traditional art forms, like Bharatanatyam and Carnatic music, are often showcased.
Decorations: Homes are adorned with colorful Kolam (rangoli) designs at the entrance, and mango leaves are hung over doorways, signifying a welcoming and auspicious atmosphere.
Community Celebrations: In addition to family gatherings, Tamil Puthandu is celebrated in a communal spirit. Social and cultural organizations often organize events to mark the occasion.
Predictions for the Year: Some people consult astrologers or read panchangams (almanacs) on Tamil Puthandu to gain insights into their future and to understand the astrological aspects of the year ahead.
Global Celebrations:
Tamil Puthandu is celebrated with great enthusiasm by Tamil communities across the world. In countries with a significant Tamil diaspora, like Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Singapore, and Canada, cultural events and community gatherings are organized to celebrate the occasion.
Epilogue :
Tamil Puthandu is not only a time for rejoicing and new beginnings but also a time to cherish the rich cultural heritage of the Tamil community. It embodies the spirit of renewal, hope, and the unity of Tamil people, both in India and across the world.
Navaratri, also spelled as “Navratri,” is a Hindu festival that spans nine nights and is celebrated in various parts of India with great enthusiasm and devotion. The term “Navaratri” originates from a combination of two Sanskrit words: “nava,” which translates to nine, and “ratri,” signifying night. The festival typically falls in September or October and is dedicated to the worship of the Hindu goddess Durga, although it is celebrated in different forms and with regional variations.
Key aspects and highlights of Navaratri:
Worship of Goddess Durga: Navaratri is primarily dedicated to the worship of the divine feminine, particularly Goddess Durga. It is believed that during these nine nights, Goddess Durga battles and triumphs over the demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
Nine Forms of the Goddess: Each day of Navaratri is associated with a different form or aspect of the goddess Durga. Devotees offer prayers, perform rituals, and decorate idols or images of the goddess in accordance with the particular form being worshipped on that day.
Fasting and Devotion: Many people observe fasting during Navaratri as a form of penance and devotion. They abstain from certain foods and dedicate their time to prayer, meditation, and singing devotional songs (bhajans).
Garba and Dandiya Raas: In the western state of Gujarat, Navaratri is celebrated with energetic and colorful dances known as Garba and Dandiya Raas. People form circles and dance to traditional folk music while wielding sticks or clapping hands in rhythmic patterns.
Durga Puja: In West Bengal, the festival coincides with Durga Puja, a major event marked by elaborate decorations, processions, cultural performances, and the immersion of idols of Goddess Durga in rivers or water bodies.
Saraswati Puja: In some parts of India, particularly the southern states, the final day of Navaratri is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge and wisdom. Books and educational tools are placed before the deity, and students seek blessings for their studies.
Vijayadashami: The tenth day following Navaratri is celebrated as Vijayadashami or Dussehra. It marks the day when Lord Rama defeated the demon king Ravana, and it is considered an auspicious time for new beginnings.
Epilogue:
Navaratri is a time of spiritual reflection, cultural festivities, and community celebrations. The rituals and customs associated with the festival vary by region and tradition, but the central theme of honoring the divine feminine and celebrating the victory of good over evil remains consistent throughout.
Jallikattu Festival, also referred to as sallikkattu, constitutes a traditional spectacle deeply embedded in the cultural tapestry of Tamil Nadu, India. This vibrant celebration is an integral component of the Pongal festival, specifically observed on the auspicious occasion of Mattu Pongal, customarily falling within the month of January.
The Jallikattu Bull Festival is the daring interaction between humans and a formidable bull, where participants strive to clasp onto the bull’s imposing hump while the bull endeavors to evade their grasp. Typically, Jallikattu features bulls of the esteemed Pulikulam or Kangayam breeds.
Origin of Jallikattu Bull Festival:
The origins of Jallikattu bull festival trace back through the annals of time, harking to the Tamil classical era, dating from 400–100 BCE. It commenced as a pursuit of the Ayar tribes residing in the ancient Tamil Nadu’s Mullai region, evolving over time into a showcase of courage and skill. As an incentive, prize money was introduced, kindling greater participation.
Cultural Significance of Jallikattu:
Jallikattu events unite communities, nurturing a profound sense of identity and shared heritage. Moreover, the sport is regarded as a means to conserve indigenous cattle breeds, as the bulls involved are often native breeds well-suited to the local environment.
Controversies surrounding Jallikattu:
Despite its deep-rooted cultural value, Jallikattu has faced significant controversies.
- Animal rights activists argue that it involves cruelty to animals, as the bulls are subjected to stress and, in some cases, harm during the event.
- There have been instances of injuries and even fatalities among participants, adding to concerns about safety.
Legal and Regulatory Measures:
The Tamil Nadu Regulation of Jallikattu Act, 2009, enacted by the Tamil Nadu legislature, outlines a comprehensive framework to ensure the event’s orderly conduct:
- Securing written permission from the respective collector, a month in advance of the event.
- Meticulously preparing the arena and ensuring its safety standards.
- Enforcing a strict prohibition against participants under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Mandating the provision of medical facilities and veterinary assistance throughout the event.
- Uncompromisingly prohibiting the use of sharp objects or any form of cruelty towards the participating animals.
The Tamil Nadu Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Conduct of Jallikattu) Rules, 2017, issued by the Tamil Nadu government, lay out explicit guidelines for the proper conduct of Jallikattu:
- Validation of bulls, certifying their fitness for participation.
- Enforcing a compulsory veterinary examination preceding the event.
- Prohibiting the use of irritants or any actions amounting to cruelty against the bulls.
- Imposing stringent safety measures for the protection of participants and spectators alike.
The historical Jallikattu Protests on 2017
In 2014, the Jallikattu protests were triggered by a decisive ban on the sport, imposed by the Supreme Court of India. The ban was grounded in concerns over animal cruelty and the imperative to safeguard animals. It was the culmination of relentless efforts by animal rights activists determined to put an end to what they perceived as brutal treatment of bulls in the name of tradition. Jallikattu, a daring sport, entails young men attempting to seize the hump of a charging bull, gripping on until the bull either halts or throws them off, often resulting in injuries to both participants and the bulls themselves.
The ban, however, encountered fierce resistance in Tamil Nadu, a state where Jallikattu runs deep in the cultural and social fabric. Advocates passionately contended that Jallikattu was an inseparable part of their heritage and should be allowed to persist, albeit with stringent regulations to ensure the well-being of both animals and participants.
The year 2017 saw the Jallikattu protests gain substantial momentum. Thousands of individuals, primarily comprising young students and impassioned activists, converged at Chennai’s Marina Beach and various other locations across Tamil Nadu, united in their demand for the ban to be lifted. They asserted that Jallikattu was more than just a sport; it symbolized Tamil pride and identity.
The protests, characterized by their peaceful yet fervent nature, garnered widespread support from the people of Tamil Nadu. Eventually, responding to the collective will of the people, the state government enacted an ordinance that allowed the resumption of Jallikattu, albeit with specific safety measures in place. This decision marked a significant victory for the protesters, underscoring the influential role of public sentiment.
In conclusion, the Jallikattu protests represent a noteworthy social and cultural movement within Tamil Nadu. They illuminate the intricate interplay between tradition, animal rights, and regional identity, culminating in a compromise that permits Jallikattu to continue under regulated conditions, addressing some of the concerns expressed by both proponents and critics of the sport.
Epilogue:
Jallikattu is a centuries-old tradition that holds immense cultural significance for the people of Tamil Nadu. However, it finds itself at a crossroads where tradition clashes with concerns for animal welfare and safety. The regulations put in place in 2017 seek to strike a balance, but the debate continues. The future of Jallikattu will likely depend on ongoing dialogue and efforts to ensure that cultural heritage can coexist with ethical treatment of animals and the safety of participants. It remains an emblematic example of the complex interplay between tradition, culture, and evolving societal values.
New Year Festival is observed on January 1st every year to mark the beginning of a new year. It is the first day of the year that was initially observed according to the Julian calendar and currently followed according to the Gregorian calendar. Every new year brings with it possibilities to learn from the prior year and look ahead to the future prospects. New Year’s Day is a national holiday and a time for celebration throughout the world. It marks a date of a clean slate and a way for positive changes in one’s life. New Year is celebrated by different cultures in their unique style. In India, New Year is one of the most popular occasions celebrated in a festive manner.
Image Attribution : Fisher Chia
Origin & History of New Year Festival:
Though the exact date is not known, New Year is believed to have originated thousands of years ago during the ancient Babylon times. During ancient times the cycle of the sun and moon decided the first day of the year.
According to the early Roman calendar, March 1st was the first day of the year that consisted of ten months (from March to December). Later in pre-historic Rome as per the Julian calendar, the day was dedicated to Janus the god of gateways and beginnings.
During the middle ages a significant change was made to the Julian calendar by correcting the leap error mistake and thereby deleting ten days. The Gregorian calendar was acknowledged by Pope Gregory XIII and January 1st was reinstated as New Year’s Day. The reformed Gregorian calendar was thereby adopted by many countries gradually.
New Year Celebrations in India:
New Year is a time for new beginnings and celebrations. India is a land of diversity with different traditions and cultures. Different places in India celebrate this holiday differently. It being a restricted holiday, the Government and most of the business offices remain open.
People in India celebrate this day with family and friends. Many people make resolutions for the coming year. Live concerts, parties, singing and dancing are a part of this fun filled holiday. Night clubs, movie theatres, restaurants, resorts and amusement parks are filled with people on this day.
Wishing each other, exchanging cards and gifts and scintillating fireworks makes the day even more special.
New Year Shopping:
To keep up the spirit of the festival, special arrangements are made in advance. Markets and shopping malls become busy at this time of the year. People usually prepare themselves a week prior to New Year in order to avoid last minute hassles. The festival look can be seen as shopping centers pile up their stocks. New Year shopping becomes indispensable with all the people looking forward to New Year decorations and gifts.
New Year’s Day Traditions:
There are many ways to start off the new year. While the celebrations in different places vary, some of the common traditions include:
- The festivities in most countries begin on the day before, during New Year’s Eve which falls on December 31st.
- The day is guided in with a countdown until midnight and by making resolutions and setting goals to improve one’s life.
- A gathering of family, friends and loved ones, music, feasting and merriment add colours to the fun filled holiday.
- Purifying homes and offering prayers at home and temples also form a ritual.
- Just as the clock strikes midnight, new year wishes start pouring in.
- Cakes are cut and fireworks are burst to mark the end of the year.
- People often head to a party for a grand New Year bash and to have fun.
- Some people also prefer a quiet night at home watching movies and reading books.
- Exchanging gifts and greetings on New Year’s Day is a most common custom, one that strengthens the bond of love among friends and families.
- New Year’s Day is a time for quiet reflection where people try to let go of old regrets and try to remake one’s life.
- Modern practices include media reports through newspapers, magazines and television, about a review of the past year. Astronomical predictions for the coming year are also a common practice that people eagerly look forward to.
Epilogue:
New Year Day is all about hopes and celebrations. This fun-filled day is often seen as an opportunity to bid adieu to the past year and welcome the coming year with a ray of hope and optimism.
Christmas Festival is regarded as one of the most important of all Christian. It is celebrated on 25th December every year to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. Christmas is both a religious as well as a secular family festival observed throughout the world.
Image Attribution: Wohin Auswandern
Origin:
The word ‘Christmas’ originates from the words ‘Cristes Maesse’ or ‘Christ’s Mass’. In earlier times, there was a controversy regarding the date of celebrating Christmas as the exact date of Christ’s birth was not known. According to historians, Christmas was first celebrated in Rome circa 336 AD and the date for the celebration was fixed as December 25. Gradually, this date was accepted by the Western countries and later by the Eastern churches. There are various theories that give an insight into the origin of the festival.
History of Christmas
December 25 is celebrated as Christmas to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. According to the New Testament, Jesus was born in Bethlehem to Joseph and Mary.
- The various customs and traditions associated with the festival of Christmas were believed to be celebrated before the birth of Jesus Christ. Based on this, the history of Christmas is said to date back over 4000 years.
- Tradition has it that in 137 AD, the Bishop of Rome ordered for the celebration of the birthday of the Christ Child. In 350 AD, another Bishop of Rome by name Julius I, chose December 25th as the date for Christmas.
- The history of Christmas can be traced from some of the popular celebrations by the early civilizations. These celebrations that gave way to Christmas were – the Mesopotamian celebration of New Years, the Sacaea celebrated by the Persians and the Babylonians, the Winter Solstice rituals held by Europeans, the Yuletide festival in Scandinavia and the Saturnalia festival of the Romans.
Christmas Celebrations:
Christmas celebrations begin on the eve of Christmas on 24th December and continue till New Year’s Eve. The Christmas season is observed with high spirits and zeal. The festive air prevails for the whole month. Christmas festivals begin many days before the festival day.
The jingling of bells and adorable decorations at every corner of the city indicates the arrival of Christmas Eve. One of the most popular practices is the decoration of the Christmas Tree which is done with great excitement. Christmas Tree adds to the colour and brightness of the celebrations.
Houses are cleaned and decorated to mark the winter holidays and celebrations. Decorating houses with mistletoe plants that are considered auspicious, colourful lights and Christmas Nativity scene (exhibiting art objects representing the birth of Lord Jesus) are some of the prominent traditions followed at homes. The Nativity Scene is a popular tradition. A barn is recreated, and there are figures representing Joseph, Mary and baby Jesus. They are usually surrounded by angels, the biblical Magi, shepherds, and animals like a donkey, ox and camels.
Churches, homes, streets and market areas are decorated with Christmas trees, Nativity scenes, and artificial snow and illuminated with colourful bright lights. Adding to the festive fervor is the tradition of run-up to Christmas, where people often go door-to-door in small groups singing carols. Public places such as restaurants, beaches, pubs and party halls are thronged by people at this season of the year.
Christmas is a favourite festival among children. They eagerly wait for this season of the year when they get to have lovely gifts from their favourite Santa Claus. They are at their best of their behaviours to make Santa happy. Immense joy and mirth can be witnessed all around. Some people visit their native place and enjoy the festival with their loved ones. Some stay at home and have a gala time with their dear ones.
Another important part of the festival is the midnight Christmas Mass and carnival. Christmas evenings are enjoyed by relishing traditional Christmas food. Preparing Christmas delicacies and exchanging gifts form a part of the celebrations. Christmas carols and songs are sung with utmost faith and fervor.
Traditions and Customs:
The tradition of Christmas festival has evolved over the years and the nature of celebration has also changed to a large extent. The festival which was a religious affair in the early years has now turned out to become a merry hearted event.
Some of the traditional elements of the festival include:
Yule Log– The ancient tradition of cutting logs from red oak trees and burning it was an important ceremony. The Yule Log was carefully chosen and brought into the house. The largest log would be placed into the fire hearth and would burn through the Twelve Days of Christmas. This tradition has slowly withered considering the difficulty in burning a tree at home.
A real chocolate Yule Log is now a popular Christmas dessert.
Santa Claus– Saint Nicholas was well known for his generosity and loving nature towards children. Santa Claus is believed to live at the North Pole where he makes Christmas gifts with the help of his elves. The common belief around the world is that Santa Claus is omnipresent and can visit millions of homes in one night.
Snow– The snow that is witnessed during the winter season represents peace and purity. Fun snow activities such as skiing, sled riding, hiking, snowboarding and snowmobile riding have always been a part of Christmas.
Christmas Tree– The traditional practice has been of using fir trees to celebrate winter festivals. Right from choosing the tree to the decorations of the tree Christmas tree plays an integral part to the celebrations. Gifts are placed under the tree, as family and friends gather around to celebrate the Birth of Christ.
Lights and Decorations– Colourful lights and beautiful decorations during Christmas bring a touch of life and warmth in the midst of winter’s cold and darkness. Beautifully adorned Christmas trees lighted with multicoloured lights are the most popular of the traditions followed.
Wreath– From ancient years, wreaths have been used to decorate homes. The wreaths are made of evergreens such as pine and holly. It is also decorated with a variety of items such as fruits, pine cones, berry etc. a wreath represents the thorns worn by Christ on the cross, and the tiny red berries represent his blood. A wreath hung on the door or window is an invitation for Christ to come into their home.
Mistletoe– Mistletoes are plants that grow on a range of trees including apple willow and oak trees. The tradition of hanging mistletoe is supposed to possess mystical powers that bring good luck to the house and wards off evil spirits. Mistletoes are also used as a sign of love and friendship.
Cake and Cookies– Cakes of all shapes and sizes and smaller sweet delicacies such as cookies are the perfect way to celebrate the holiday rituals. Christmas cookies are perfect giveaways that are filled with Christmas spirit. Christmas cake is often a fruit cake that is a tangible and yummy link to the Christmas traditions.
Christmas Carols– A Christmas carol is a song or hymn sung on the theme of Christmas or during the Christmas holiday season. It is a part of the secular family celebration. People want to feel the nostalgic ideal of Christmas by singing and listening to carols.
Christmas Shopping:
Christmas is one of the most exciting parts of the year for people around the world. With the beginning of December, it is a time of dual celebration, of Christmas and New Year. There are many traditions and customs associated with the celebration of Christmas such as a well organized Christmas party, special Christmas dinner, cakes, and an inseparable part of Christmas celebrations- Christmas gifts.
During Christmas time, malls, stores, streets are decorated to celebrate this joyous time filled with shopping, gift giving, and happiness.
Epilogue
The spirit of Christmas season is all about faith, joy, bonding, and spending quality time with near and dear ones. Christmas is celebrated with pomp, gaiety and devotion. The festival also gives the world the lesson of love and is a beautiful day to show compassion and understand the importance of giving.
Pongal Festival – The Harvest Festival of South India
Pongal or Thai Pongal, a four days long festival, is one of the major festivals celebrated in South India, particularly by the Tamil communities. The festival is dedicated to Sun God praying and thanking him for the abundance in agricultural produce. Pongal is observed on the first day of the month of Thai (according to Tamil calendar), usually falling on January 14th or 15th every year. This harvest festival is celebrated throughout India under many regional names. Pongal is Tamil Nadu’s Harvest Thanksgiving Festival.
Image Attribution : Nithi Anand
Pongal – Tamilar Thirunal
“Thai Pirandhal Vazhi Pirakkum” is a famous Tamil quote that is signifying, ‘the beginning of Tamil Month Thai will make ready for new opportunities’. Pongal Festival is celebrated to mark the withdrawal of the South-east storms and just as the procuring of Harvest.
Etymology
The terms “Thai Pongal” are derived from Tamil language. ‘Thai’ refers to the name of the tenth month as per Tamil calendar and ‘Pongal’ in Tamil means ‘to boil’ or ‘overflow’. Pongal also refers to a sweet dish of rice boiled in milk and jaggery that forms a vital part of this festival.
History
From the various inscriptions and texts found in Hindu temples, the festival of Pongal can be dated back to the Chola period in the least. As per Hindu mythology, Basava or the bull was once informed by Lord Shiva to visit the Earth and ask humans to have an oil massage and bath every day.
Days of the Festival
Pongal festival is observed for three days beginning with Bhogi Pongal, followed by Surya Pongal, Mattu Pongal and Kanum Pongal.
Bhogi Pongal
Bhogi Pongal marks the last day of the Tamil month Margazhi (December-January) and the first day of Pongal celebrations. Houses are cleaned, painted and decorated, old belongings are discarded, new clothes are worn and women dance around a bonfire singing songs in praise of Nature and Gods marking the start of the festival. Prayers are offered to Lord Indra (The God of Rains) thanking and hoping for abundant rains in the forthcoming year.
Surya Pongal
Surya Pongal or Perum Pongal marks the main day of the festival. The festival falls on the first day of the Tamil month Thai (January-February). It coincides with Makara Sankranthi, the winter festival celebrated throughout India. As the name suggests, this festival is dedicated to the Sun God.
Preparation of Pongal dish in earthen pots, artistic Kolams or designs in front of the house, traditional attires, celebration with family and friends, and floral decorations forms a part of Surya Pongal.
Mattu Pongal
Mattu Pongal is celebrated the day after Surya Pongal. Mattu in Tamil means ‘cow, cattle, or bullock’. This day is dedicated to cattle thanking them for their help with the harvest. Decorating the cattles, offering them special meals, worshipping them, and events that include community games and sports forms a part of the celebrations. Mattu pongal is all about fun, frolic and festivities.
Kanum Pongal
Kanum Pongal marks the end of Pongal festivities for the year. The word in ‘Kanum’ in Tamil means ‘to visit’. Family reunions, social events and gatherings form a part of Mattu Pongal.
Pongal – The Dish
A significant part of the Pongal festivities is the preparation of the sweet dish Pongal. Freshly harvested rice is boiled in milk and jaggery (raw cane sugar). Other ingredients that add to the taste are cardamom, raisins, cashew nuts, coconut and ghee. Cooking of Pongal is done in sunlight, usually near a temple or in a porch or courtyard at home, as the dish is a dedication to the Sun God.
Pongal is cooked in a claypot which is decorated with flowers, leaves and Rangoli (kolam).
Epilogue
Pongal, more than just a festival symbolizes the celebration of life. It is the most cheerful way to start the year ahead on a thankful note. Pongal is all about embracing the goodness around us and having a gala time with friends and families.
Other Popular Festivals in Tamilnadu
The Madurai Chithirai Festival is a significant annual event held in the city of Madurai, located in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, India. It is celebrated during the Tamil month of Chithirai, which usually falls between April and May. The festival is known for its grandeur, religious fervor, and cultural significance.
Image Attribution : Military Karthick
Wedding of Lord Sundareswarar (Lord Shiva) and Goddess Meenakshi
The Chithirai Festival primarily commemorates the celestial wedding of Lord Sundareswarar (Lord Shiva) and Goddess Meenakshi (an incarnation of Goddess Parvati). The Meenakshi Amman Temple, dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi, serves as the focal point of the festival.
Main Events of Madurai Chithirai Festival
The festival spans several days and involves elaborate rituals, processions, and performances. Here’s an overview of the main events:
Flag Hoisting
The festival begins with the hoisting of a flag known as the Kodiyetram. This act signifies the commencement of the celebrations.
Coronation Ceremony
The coronation ceremony takes place in which Lord Sundareswarar is crowned as the King of Madurai, and Goddess Meenakshi is crowned as the Queen.
Processions
The highlight of the Chithirai Festival is the massive procession known as the Chithirai Thiruvizha. During this procession, the idols of Lord Sundareswarar and Goddess Meenakshi are taken out of the temple in beautifully decorated chariots and paraded through the streets of Madurai. The procession attracts thousands of devotees and tourists who gather to witness the grand spectacle.
Alagar Vaigai Elenthuarulal
As part of the festival, the deity Lord Alagar, the brother of Goddess Meenakshi, is brought in a golden procession from the nearby town of Alagar Kovil to Madurai. He is taken to the Vaigai River, where a symbolic bath takes place.
The Celestial Wedding
The pinnacle of the Chithirai Festival is the reenactment of the celestial wedding of Lord Sundareswarar and Goddess Meenakshi. The wedding ceremony takes place inside the Meenakshi Amman Temple with great devotion and fanfare. Devotees throng the temple to witness this auspicious event.
Apart from these main events, the festival also includes various cultural programs, music and dance performances, exhibitions, and traditional games. The streets of Madurai are adorned with decorative arches, colorful lights, and vibrant decorations. Food stalls are set up, offering traditional South Indian delicacies to the visitors.
The Madurai Chithirai Festival is not only a religious celebration but also a significant cultural event that showcases the rich heritage and traditions of Tamil Nadu. It attracts a large number of devotees, tourists, and scholars from all over the world, making it a must-visit event for anyone interested in experiencing the grandeur of Indian festivals.
Other Popular Festivals in Tamilnadu
Overview of Deepavali Festival
Diwali or Deepavali is one of the most popular Hindu festivals religiously celebrated in India. The festival is celebrated in Tamil Nadu during the Tamil month of Aippasi (October-November).
Deepavali marks new beginnings, the victory of good over evil and light over darkness. ‘Deep’ means light and ‘vali’ means row. Houses and streets are decorated by rows of lamps and lights.
Image Attribution : Koshy Koshy
Religious Significance for Diwali Festival
Diwali is an important celebration for various religions including Hinduism, Sikhism, Jainism and Buddhism. The festival of lights is observed in many Indian States. In the Eastern States, the festival is celebrated to mark the victory of Goddess Kali over demons. In the Northern States, Diwali is the day when Lord Krishna had lifted the Govardhan Hill to protect his village people from the wrath of Lord Indra. South Indians celebrate Deepavali to mark the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura.
The Diwali Festival Celebrations
- Homes and offices are cleaned and decorated.
- The day before the festival, a huge oven is cleaned and made ready for oil bath for the whole family on the following day.
- The house is decorated with lights and kolams. Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity is worshipped.
- Lighting of diyas at homes and streets, colourful rangolis/kolams outside the house, puja and rituals forms a part of this festival.
- In addition to this, wearing new clothes, greeting near and dear ones, scintillating display of fireworks.
- Exotic sweets and feasts are prepared at home. Traditional sweets are served in temples for devotees.
- Cultural events, competitions and musical performances are held at many places to have more fun and frolic.
- Movies are released on the occasion of Deepavali and fans line up at cinema halls to watch the movie of their favourite stars.
- Fairs and exhibitions are held in cities where traditional handicrafts and souvenirs are kept for sale.
- Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai, Ranganathaswamy Temple in Thiruchirapalli and Kamakshi Amman Temple in Kanchipuram witnesses huge crowds of devotees during the Deepavali festival.
Epilogue
Diwali is a celebration of unity and love. This pious festival and its tradition fills people with joy, peace and happiness. It reminds us to give and forgive. Lately there has been widespread awareness among people about how to celebrate a safe and eco friendly Diwali, giving priority to our nature and environment. Supreme Court has now banned usage of conventional firecrackers to bring down pollution levels. It has also fixed a two hour window for bursting crackers.
Other Popular Festivals in Tamilnadu
Karthigai Deepam Festival is one of the oldest and most traditional festivals observed across South India. This festival of lights is also known by the name Karthikai Vilakkidu or Thrikarthika.
The festival falls in the Tamil month of Karthigai (November-December) when the Moon is in conjunction with the constellation Karthigai (Pleiades) and Pournami.
History behind the Kathigai Deepam Festival
According to Hindu mythology, Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma once argued amongst themselves about who was supreme, ignoring their duties. On seeing this, Lord Shiva appeared in the form of fire and told them that whoever it is that finds the top or bottom of the fire is the greatest. While Lord Vishnu took the form of a boar (Varaha) and delved into the earth to find the bottom of flame, Lord Brahma took the form of a swan (Annam) and flew up towards the skies. Both their efforts were in vain and when finally they gave up their ego, Lord Shiva appeared before them. The day on which Lord Shiva appeared as a pillar of fire is celebrated as Thirukarthigai/Karthigai Deepam.
Thrikarthika Celebrations
Karthigai Maha Deepam celebration is marked by rows of clay oil lamps (Agal Vilakku) lit in every house and across streets. The lightning of lamp is considered auspicious and is believed to greet joy and prosperity and avert all that is evil. Bursting of crackers also form a part of the celebration, which is now being restricted widely as a positive step towards environment protection.
More insights about the Thrikarthika Festival
- It is interesting to know that the constellation that marks the day of Karthigai Deepam is a cluster of six stars appearing in a pendant shape.
· Legend has it that the six stars represent the six celestial nymphs who gave birth to six babies. These babies were united together by Goddess Parvathi to form Lord Murugan, who was an incarnation of his father, Lord Shiva himself. - Karthigai Deepam is a festival religiously celebrated for 3 days – the first day called Appa Karthigai, second called Vadai Karthigai and third and last day is Thiru Karthigai. Earthen lamps are lit once the sun sets signifying the victory of good over evil.
- Karthigai Deepam is celebrated in Lord Shiva Temple in Thiruvannamalai in a grand manner. A huge fire lamp (Mahadeepam) is lit up on the hill which is visible for several kilometres around the area.
Epilogue
The festival is a dazzling portrayal of Indian tradition and culture on the one hand, and celebration of sharing happiness and positivity on the other hand. Karthigai Deepam is equivalent to Diwali with all its beauty, bliss and warmth.