When is Tamil New Year?
Puthandu is the Tamil New Year's Day.
It is a public holiday in Sri Lanka and in India, it is a public holiday in many regions.
The Tamil year starts on April 14th in the Gregorian calendar. It is similar to the Vernal Equinox which is usually celebrated on or around March 21st. The date differs due to the position of the Tamil region in the northern hemisphere and some ancient and impressive astronomical observations involving the orbits of Jupiter and Saturn.
Though not purely a religious festival, Puthandu does hold special significance to Hindus as it is said to be the day that the Hindu god of creation, Lord Brahma, started creation.
Tamil New Year’s Day is celebrated on the first day of Chithirai - the first month in the Tamil Calendar and is also known as Varusha Pirappu.
Indian Customs
Despite being an ancient festival, a modern highlight of Puthandu is a big car festival held at Tiruvadamarudur near Kumbakonam.
On the night before Puthandu, a tray with fruit, betel leaves, gold and silver jewellery, money and flowers is arranged. This is to be viewed first thing in the morning as it is believed that seeing these auspicious things will bring prosperity and happiness during the year.
