Puthandu is the celebration of the Tamil New Year, which is the first day of the month of ‘Chitteari’ in the Tamil calendar. However, looking in the Gregorian calendar it falls most likely on the 14th of April. Chitterai is the beginning month of the Tamil solar calendar and Puthandu marks the onset of the new calendric year. As we usher in the Tamil New Year, here are some lesser known facts about the festival. Let the celebrations commence! Puthandu Vazthukal!  Tamil new year celebration.

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• Known as Puthandu in Tamil, the Tamil new year is celebrated by Tamils in India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Singapore, Reunion, and Mauritius.
• Tamil New Year marks the first day of the Hindu solar calendar which follows the vernal equinox when day and night are of approximately equal duration all over the planet because of astronomical activity.
• On the eve of Puthandu, Kanni – which is a tray arranged with mango, banana, jack fruit, betel leaves and areca nut, gold/silver jewelry, coins/money, flowers, and a mirror is placed. This is to be viewed upon waking in the morning.
• Elaborately decorative Kolams are seen on every Tamil doorstep as they are believed to bring prosperity to the household.
• According to the legends, it was on the Tamil New Year when Goddesses Meenakshi tied the nuptial lock with Lord Sundareswarar.
• Many people in Tamil Nadu also celebrate Puthandu as the day when Lord Brahma – Hindu god of Creation started creation.
• Elders give money and gifts to their young ones in the family to bless them with good luck.
• Neem flowers and fresh mangoes, which are in full bloom during this season are believed to be a sign of prosperity. They are used to prepare Maanga Pachadi -  A New Year’s Eve dish which is sweet, sour and bitter to signify different aspects of life.

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