Puthandu Vazthukal, Tamil New Year – April 2012
Puthandu Vazthukal - Tamil New Year
Puthandu -Tamil New Year, also known as Varusha Pirappu is observed on first day of Tamil month Chithirai. Puthandu is celebrated by Indian Tamils in Tamil Nadu & Pondicherry, by Sri Lankan Tamils and by the Tamil population in Malaysia, Singapore, Reunion Island and Mauritius. In 2012, Tamil New Year falls on April 13th.
In Tamil Nadu when Sankranthi takes place after sunrise and before sunset the year begins on the same day. If Sankranthi takes place after sunset then the year begins on the following day. The Tamil New Year follows the Nirayanam vernal equinox and generally falls either on 13 or 14 April of the Gregorian year. 13 or 14 April marks the first day of the traditional Tamil calendar and is a public holiday in both Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka. Tropical vernal equinox fall around 22 March, and adding 23 degrees of trepidation or oscillation to it, we get the Hindu sidereal or Nirayana Mesha Sankranti
The Hindu temples make elaborate arrangements for ‘Panchanga Patanam’ or astrological prediction of the Tamil new year from the new year panchangam. In some temples there will be festivals, processions, lectures and music events.
The lunch on the Tamil New year day will have special menu item called ‘pachadi.’ This dish will highlight six tastes – Astringent, Bitter, Pungent, Salty, Sour and Sweet. People will feed the poor and may also offer new dresses.
The Chakra team wishes all tamils around the world a happy new year & Puthandu Vazthukal.
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