Tamil New Year

        Tamil New Year or Puthandu is the first day of Tamil New Year falling on the Nirayanam or vernal Equinox day. Equinox occurs when the center of the Sun is in the straight line, just overhead from the equator of the earth. To be more elaborative equinox are the days in a Year when the length of the days are equal to length of night. Or if the sun rises at 6 AM the sunset should be at 6 PM. This day generally falls on the 13Th or 14Th April and is observed as a public holiday in Tamil Nadu. Apart from Tamil Nadu in India this day is also observed in Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Thailand, Nepal, Bangla Desh and Burma. 

Puthandu is celebrated in different styles in different places. In Tamil Nadu there is a feasting atmosphere everywhere. Houses are decorated with neem and Mangoes which are the first batch of fruits of the season and considered to bring growth and Prosperity.  In Madurai Temple Chitterai Thiruviza (Puthandu) is celebrated, an exhibition called Chitterai Porutkktchi is held every year. In Tiruvidaimarudur near Kumbakonam a large Car Festival is held. In Sri Lanka it is Sinhalese New Year time. People take some herbal bath and a game of Por-Thenkai is played. Elders present youngsters with gifts of money for good luck.