Puthandu, also known as Puthuvarudam, signifies the commencement of the Tamil New Year, marking the advent of spring and honoured as a harvest festival.
Celebrated predominantly by the Tamil populace in Tamil Nadu, Sri Lanka, and globally dispersed Tamil communities, Puthandu aligns with the inaugural day of the Chithirai month as per the Tamil calendar. This year, the festivity falls on April 14, as it customarily does every year.
Historical Origins: Tracing its roots to the era of the Chola dynasty, which governed Tamil Nadu and adjoining regions of South India from the 9th to the 13th centuries, Puthandu's inception coincides with the emergence of the Tamil calendar, attributed to the Chola reign.
Significance: Puthandu garners recognition as a public holiday in Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka, with certain other states also commemorating the new year on this date.
Though not strictly a religious observance, folklore intertwines Puthandu with the notion of Lord Brahma's creation of the universe and Lord Indra's descent to Earth to usher in peace and tranquillity.
Symbolising a new dawn, Puthandu symbolizes hope and rejuvenation, inspiring people to embrace fresh beginnings and embark on auspicious ventures.
Traditions and Festivities: Preceding Puthandu, households bedeck their surroundings with kolam, intricate patterns crafted from dyed rice flour, symbolizing the invitation of joy and prosperity. On the auspicious day itself, families prepare a ceremonial platter adorned with flowers, mirrors, jewellery, currency, betel leaves, mangoes, and other auspicious items.
A vegetarian feast is meticulously prepared, with younger members seeking the blessings of their elders, fostering familial harmony and reverence. Before or on Puthandu, homes undergo a thorough cleaning, often accompanied by a traditional herbal or turmeric bath for ritualistic purification.
Dressed in new attire, individuals exchange greetings with "Puthandu Vazthukal," wishing each other a prosperous new year. Devotional hymns resonate throughout the day, accentuating the spiritual fervour of the occasion, as communities come together to celebrate the advent of another year with renewed zeal and optimism.
Here are some wishes to share with family and friends on Puthandu:
- May this Puthandu bring you abundant joy, prosperity, and success in all your endeavours throughout the year ahead!
- Wishing you and your loved ones a Tamil New Year filled with laughter, love, and cherished moments that create unforgettable memories. Puthandu Vazthukal!
- May the divine blessings of Lord Brahma and the celestial guidance of Lord Indra illuminate your path with peace, harmony, and serenity this Puthandu.
- As we embark on this new journey, may your life be adorned with the colours of happiness, the fragrance of prosperity, and the melody of success.
- Let the spirit of Puthandu inspire you to embrace new beginnings, overcome challenges, and pursue your dreams with unwavering determination and optimism.
- May the traditions of Puthandu strengthen the bonds of family, deepen the ties of friendship, and foster a sense of unity and togetherness among us all.
- Wishing you a Puthandu filled with bountiful blessings, abundant harvests, and the fulfilment of all your heartfelt aspirations.
- May the dawn of this Tamil New Year bring renewed hope, rejuvenated spirits, and boundless opportunities for growth and prosperity in your life. Puthandu Vazthukal!
