Puthandu, also known as Tamil New Year or Varusha Pirappu, marks the beginning of the new year in the Tamil calendar. Celebrated with joy and devotion, it falls on the first day of the Tamil month Chithirai. In 2025, Puthandu will be observed on Monday, April 14.
Puthandu 2025 Date and Time
| Event | Date and Time |
| Tamil Shaka Samvata | 1947 Begins |
| Puthandu | Monday, April 14, 2025 |
| Sankranti Moment on Puthandu | 03:30 AM |
Puthandu holds deep cultural and spiritual importance for Tamil communities around the world. It marks a new cycle of growth, prosperity, and hope. The day is seen as an ideal time to start fresh ventures, make resolutions, and spend time with family. It is also a moment of reverence, as people seek blessings for peace, happiness, and abundance in the year ahead.
The Tamil New Year Calculation
The Tamil New Year is aligned with the movement of the Sun. It begins when the Sun enters the Mesha Rashi (Aries) — an event known as Mesha Sankranthi. In Tamil Nadu, if Sankranthi occurs after sunrise and before sunset, the New Year is observed on the same day. However, if the Sun enters Mesha Rashi after sunset, the celebration moves to the next day.
This timing method is used to determine the civil start of the year. However, for rituals like Dan-Punya (charitable and meritorious acts), it is important to calculate the exact moment of Sankranthi. Only the specific time around the Sun’s transition is considered auspicious for such activities, making precise timing essential for spiritual observances.
Common Puthandu Rituals and Traditions
- Kanni: People begin their day by viewing auspicious items such as gold, betel leaves, mirror, fruits, and flowers. This is known as “Kanni” and is believed to bring prosperity.
- Puthandu Palangal: Traditional dishes like Mango Pachadi are prepared, symbolising the blend of sweet, sour, and bitter experiences in life.
- Temple Visits: Devotees visit temples to offer prayers and seek blessings from deities for the coming year.
- Decorations: Homes are cleaned, decorated with kolam (rangoli), and adorned with fresh flowers to welcome the new year with joy and purity.
Puthandu is more than just the start of a new year—it is a time for renewal, reflection, and rejuvenation. As the Tamil Shaka Samvata 1947 begins, families come together to honour traditions, perform rituals, and welcome the new year with hope in their hearts. By understanding the significance and timing of this sacred day, we deepen our connection with our culture and heritage.
May this Puthandu bring happiness, health, and success to you and your loved ones.
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