Pongal
It typically takes place in mid-January and lasts four days. The festival celebrates the end of the winter season and the start of the sun’s six-month journey northward.
Tamil New Year (Puthandu)
The Tamil New Year, celebrated on April 14th, is the first day of the Tamil calendar. It is a time for fresh starts and joyous celebrations. On this day, people thoroughly clean their homes and decorate the entrance with lovely kolam (rangoli) designs made of colorful powder.
Thaipusam
It usually occurs in January or February. During this festival, devotees demonstrate their devotion by carrying ‘kavadi,’ which are physical burdens representing penance and devotion.
Mahamaham
Mahamaham is a grand Hindu festival held every 12 years in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu. It is similar to the Kumbh Mela in northern India. During this festival, many devotees gather to take a holy dip in the Mahamaham tank.
Karthigai Deepam
Karthigai Deepam, also known as the festival of lights, is held in the Tamil month of Karthigai (November–December). During this festival, houses are beautifully decorated with oil lamps, resulting in a warm and glowing atmosphere.
Aadi Perukku
This special occasion honors rivers and water bodies, which represent fertility and prosperity. Families gather on riverbanks to pray and thank the rivers for their life-giving waters.
Navaratri and Vijayadashami
Navaratri is a vibrant nine-day festival of Tamil Nadu that honors the goddess Durga. It’s a time for fervor and devotion as we commemorate the triumph of good over evil. The festival reaches its pinnacle on Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra, which represents victory.
Deepavali
Families eagerly prepare for this special occasion by cleaning and decorating their homes, dressing up in new outfits, and filling the air with the sounds of exploding fireworks.
Chithirai Thiruvizha
Chithirai Thiruvizha, held in Madurai, is a captivating month-long festival. It is a celebration of divine love, commemorating the celestial marriage of Lord Sundareswarar, a manifestation of Shiva, and Goddess Meenakshi.
Margazhi Festival
Margazhi, the Tamil month spanning December and January, is deeply spiritual and culturally significant. It’s a time when temples come to life with stunning kolam designs, adding a touch of artistry to the surroundings.
Vinayaka Chaturthi
Vinayaka Chaturthi is a special day dedicated to Lord Ganesha that is celebrated with great devotion and joy. Clay Ganesha idols, lovingly crafted and worshipped by families and communities, bring life into homes and public spaces.
Ayudha Pooja
Ayudha Pooja, a beloved Navaratri tradition, is a stunning celebration of hard work and respect. During this auspicious time, we recognize not only the tools, vehicles, and instruments we use in our trades and professions, but also the dedication and hard work they represent.