Puththandu or better known as Tamil New Year, is the celebration of the first day of the Tamil new year in mid-April by Tamil population around the world. People greet each other on this day by saying Iniya Thamizh Puththaandu Nalvaazhthukkal. Tamil people celebrate Tamil new year in the month of Chiththirai , the first month of the Tamil solar calendar in April.
There are several references in early Tamil literature to the April new year. Nakkirar, the author of the Nedunalvaadai mentions in the 3rd century that the Sun travels from Mesha/Chiththirai through 11 successive Raasis or signs of the Zodiac. Koodaloor Kizhaar in the 3rd century refers to Mesha Raasi/Chiththirai as the commencement of the year in the Puranaanooru. The 8th century Silappadikaaram describes the 12 Raasis/zodiac signs starting with Mesha/Chiththirai. The Manimekalai alludes to the Hindu solar calendar as we know it today.
In the temple city of Madurai , the Chiththirai Thiruvizha is celebrated in the Meenalshi Temple. A huge exhibition is held, called Chiththirai Porutkaatchi. In some parts of Southern Tamilnadu is called Chiththirai Vishu. The day is marked with a feast in tamil homes and entrances to the houses are decorated elaborately with Kolams. In most parts of India, one can see Neem trees blooming with their flowers and the first batch of mangoes hanging prominently. This day is celebrated by some communities with neem flowers and raw mangoes to symbolize growth and prosperity.
Kani Kaanuthal :
Kani kaana anaivaraiyum anbudan azhaikkirom 😊 ..
Wishing you a New Year filled with
Peace, Love and Hope !!
Happy Tamil New Year 2010!
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