What is panguni uthiram?

Panguni Uthiram

Panguni Uthiram is a significant Hindu festival celebrated in the Tamil month of Panguni (March-April) when the moon aligns with the star Uthiram (Uttara Phalguni). It is a day of great religious importance, primarily observed in Tamil Nadu and other regions with a significant Tamil population.

• Significance: The festival is mainly associated with the divine marriages of several deities:
  • Lord Murugan and Deivanai: It is believed that their celestial wedding took place on this day. Devotees often visit Murugan temples and offer prayers.
  • Lord Shiva and Parvati: The marriage of Shiva and Parvati (as Meenakshi) is also celebrated.
  • Lord Rama and Sita: In some regions, the divine union of Rama and Sita is observed.
  • Lord Vishnu and Lakshmi: The day also commemorates the marriage of Vishnu and Lakshmi.
• Celebrations:
  • Temple Visits: Devotees visit temples dedicated to the deities mentioned above and participate in special rituals and ceremonies.
  • Processions: Grand processions featuring decorated idols of the deities are carried out in many places.
  • Offerings: Special prayers and offerings are made to the gods and goddesses.
  • Kavadi Attam: This is a popular ritual where devotees carry decorated structures (kavadis) on their shoulders to Murugan temples.
  • Annadanam: The distribution of food (Annadanam) to the needy is a common practice.
• Spiritual Significance: Panguni Uthiram is considered an auspicious day for weddings and starting new ventures. It is believed that observing this festival brings prosperity and harmony into the lives of devotees. The day emphasizes the importance of marriage and family life in Hindu culture. It also celebrates the divine love and unity of the deities.