Thiruvathira

Thiruvathira is a Malayalam calendar event arranged mainly by women of India. It is not set by all women of India but especially by women living in south India. It is also called Arudhra Darisanam, and the month it is arranged is called Dhanu. Women gathered and offered prayers to Lakshmi on this festival to seek her blessings. A few people also celebrate Shiva and Parwati marriage ceremonies. 

Celebrations related to Thiruvathira

On this day, mostly cooked food is called rice, and women come to one place from all over the south of India to dance in the happiness of Shiva and Parwati marriage. Before starting the dance ritual related to the event, each woman in the group has to take a bath; otherwise, the dance ritual will not be accepted by Parwati and Shiva. Ragi Porridge is the first performed activity of the day, and Shiva will be worshipped during this activity. 

Puja rituals at Thiruvairaanikulam temple

Puja activity of this festival is primarily arranged in Thiruvairaanikulam temple, and Shiva and Parwati’s idols are worshipped there. Parwati is decorated with ornaments and new dresses named Parwati dresses. Tulsi and banana leaves are taken, and Puja food is offered to Parwati and Shiva by placing them in these leaves. Thiruvairaanikulam temples are also decorated with Shiva art, and yellow lights are placed on the temple’s walls. Satvik food, including rice, is prepared by women and taken to the temple for offering to Shiva and breaking Shiva’s fast. After Puja, prayers will be dedicated to Parwati for salvation.