The Tamil Calendar, followed by Tamil people globally, is a lunisolar calendar based on the movements of the moon and stars. It’s a vital tool for scheduling auspicious events and timings, deeply rooted in Tamil culture and traditions. This calendar is predominantly used in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and by Tamil communities in Malaysia, Singapore, and Sri Lanka for cultural and religious observances.
The Tamil year traditionally begins on April 14th and adheres to a 60-year cycle, similar to other calendars used in the Indian subcontinent. Each day starts at sunrise and ends at sunset. The Tamil calendar divides the year into six seasons, each spanning two months. The fifth month, Aavani, and the tenth month, Thai, are considered highly auspicious for weddings and other significant events, while the fourth month, Aadi, is generally considered inauspicious.
The Tamil calendar consists of twelve months, starting with Chithirai and ending with Panguni. Each month holds cultural and religious significance. Chithirai, the first month, marks the Tamil New Year and typically falls on April 14th of the Gregorian calendar. This month has 31 days and features the Chithirai Thiruvizha festival.
Vaigasi, the second month, also has 31 days and is considered a favorable month for Muruga Kadavul (Lord Murugan). Vaigasi Visakam is a significant day within this month. Aani, the third month, has 32 days. Aadi, the fourth month, has 31 days and is associated with Aadi Amavasai and Aadiperukku festivals. Aavani, the fifth month, has 31 days.
Purattasi, the sixth month, has 31 days. Ippasi, the seventh month, has either 29 or 30 days. Kaarthigai, the eighth month, also has 29 or 30 days. Maargazhi, the ninth month, has 29 days. Thai, the tenth month, with 29 or 30 days, is the harvest month and includes the Pongal celebrations.
Maasi, the eleventh month, has 29 or 30 days. Finally, Panguni, the twelfth and final month, has 30 days. Knowing the intricacies of the Tamil calendar allows individuals to plan events in accordance with tradition and auspicious timing. Understanding the “Today Calendar” in the context of the Tamil calendar provides valuable insights into cultural practices and beliefs.
