Chithirai, festival of divinity and fun

The Tamil month of Chithirai, in which the Tamil New Year Day falls, is the beginning of the celebrations throughout the month and a little beyond, especially in temples across the state. 

The Chithirai Thiruvizha of Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple in Madurai, the mother of all temple festivals, is mostly the first celebration in shrines in southern districts. On the day of Tamil New Year, the car festival is held in most of the major ancient temples. Similar events are organised in other places like Kancheepuram, Tiruchy and Dindigul. Most of the villages are in a festive mood and with schools closing for the annual vacation, it is fun time for the kids and the entire family.

Some old-timers say that Chithirai is a festival where people from all walks of life would get together at one place. These celebrations also would provide a platform for several art forms of Tamil Nadu, thereby keeping them alive. Of late, with the technological advancement and western mindset of people, a majority of these art forms are being given a miss in these festivals. They are replaced by troupes from other states, orchestras and several other modern cultural extravaganzas. The Chithirai Tiruvizhas have also been venues for match making as a lot of youngsters will be on rounds during the event. 

But despite all these transformations, even today many people working away from their hometowns make it a point to return to their natives place to be with their family and enjoy the Chithirai Thiruvizha in their village temples. 

Chithirai Pournami (Full Moon day) is another major event in the calendar of this month. It is time for family getaway. On this day, families along with their relatives, friends and neighbours prepare sumptuous food at home and go to river banks, beaches and other tourist spots for a moon-light dinner. 

The activity also offers time for everyone to reminisce their past experiences and is aimed at creating a sense of togetherness among the people. Ultimately, the month of Chithirai is filled with festival, fun blended in divinity.