Puthandu 2026: History, significance, and celebrations
What's the story
On April 14, Tamil Nadu, Malaysia, Singapore, and Sri Lanka will observe Tamil New Year or Puthandu, the first day of the year according to the Tamil calendar. The day holds immense cultural and spiritual significance for Tamil communities across the globe. The celebration marks a time for renewal and reflection as families come together to celebrate traditions and rituals while welcoming a new year with hope.
Historical context
History behind the celebration
The origins of Puthandu can be traced back to the Chola dynasty (9th-13th centuries), which ruled over Tamil Nadu and other parts of South India. It was during this period that the Tamil calendar was created, with the first day of Chithirai being designated as Tamil New Year. This year, it falls on April 14 according to the Gregorian calendar.
Date determination
Determining date of Puthandu
The date of Tamil New Year is determined by the movement of the sun. Mesha Sankranthi, or the Sun's entry into Mesha Rashi (Aries), marks the start of the year. If Sankranthi occurs after sunrise but before sunset, New Year is celebrated on that day. However, if it happens after sunset, celebrations are held on the following day.
Celebrations
Significance of the day
Puthandu, which marks the beginning of Chithirai, the first month in the Tamil solar calendar, is celebrated with much fervor. Tamils in Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka celebrate this day as a public holiday. It symbolizes a new cycle of growth, prosperity, and hope. People consider it an auspicious day to spend time with family, make resolutions for the year ahead, and start new ventures.
Celebrations
How Tamilians celebrate Puthandu
Puthandu is celebrated with a delightful spread of traditional foods such as vadai, sambhar, rice, payasam, appalam, vegetable curry, fresh mango pickle, curd, mango pachadi, and pongal. The celebrations usually begin with temple visits to pray and seek blessings for prosperity in the coming year. Families clean and decorate their homes with beautiful kolam (rangoli) designs made from colored rice flour and fresh flowers, before gathering in traditional attire to enjoy festive meals together.
Customs
Customs associated with Puthandu
Kanni, meaning the "first sight" of the year, is a key Puthandu tradition. It is believed that the first thing a person sees on Puthandu morning sets the tone for the year ahead. To invite good fortune, Tamilians wake up early, take a ritual bath, and gaze at auspicious items such as gold, silver, fruits, flowers, or their reflection in a mirror.