Puthandu (Tamil New Year)
AI-drafted · awaiting admin review
The Tamil New Year, on the first day of the month of Chithirai. Homes are decorated with kolam, the new almanac is read, and a mango pachadi of sweet, sour and bitter tastes is served.
New YearSouthern India
| Where | Tamil Nadu, Puducherry; Tamil communities everywhere |
|---|---|
| When | 1 Chithirai (about 14 April) |
| Calendar | Solar (Mesha Sankranti) |
| Next date | 14 April 2027 (Meshadi, Tamil New Year's Day) |
| Food | Maanga pachadi (mango pachadi) |
What people do
- Kolam at the doorstep and a kanni (auspicious first sight) of fruits, flowers and gold.
- Temple visits and the reading of the panchangam.
Significance
The start of the Tamil solar year.