Thiruvalluvar Day

Thiruvalluvar Day is usually celebrated either on the 15th or 16th of January in the state of Tamil Nadu. The occasion is named in the honor of the poet, Thiruvalluvar, and is a part of the Pongal celebrations. 

Why it is being celebrated?

Thiruvalluvar was a renowned philosopher and poet who was said to have lived in the 4th century BCE. His contribution to the Tamil literature is immense, which is echoed through his works that continue to inspire people to this day. Best known for penning Thirukkural, a collection of couplets on ethics, political and economic matters, and love, Thiruvalluvar is remembered by the people of Tamil Nadu through his literary work. A beautifully sculpted statue of the famed scholar exists in the city of Chennai.

How it is celebrated?

The day is quite like Raksha Bandhan where women pray for the well-being of their brothers. The women perform the rituals in the morning. Rice is put at the Centre of a leaf as a part of the ritual while the women ask for the well-being of their brothers. This is followed by an Arati and turmeric water is sprinkled on the “kolam”.

People also visit their relatives where the younger members pay respect to the elders while the elders show gratitude by offering a token amount. Another custom that is followed is leaving food on banana leaves for the crows to eat. This custom is followed in some of the parts of Tamil Nadu.

So, if you are anywhere down south, don’t forget to witness this heart-warming festival.