ATMA

TAMIL FESTIVALS AND RITES: Exploring Cultural Riches​

The Tamil culture is vibrant and diverse, with a calendar filled with festivals and rites that reflect the deep connection between spirituality, tradition, and communal celebrations. Among these, the Tamil New Year, also known as "Puthandu" or "Puthu Varusham," holds a special place, intricately linked to astronomical observations, particularly the position of Jupiter.

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Tamil New Year and the Cosmic Alignment:

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1. Astronomical Basis: ​The Tamil New Year typically falls in mid-April, marking the transition from the old year to the new. Unlike the Western calendar, the Tamil calendar is based on a combination of solar and lunar cycles. Puthandu is determined astronomically, with the key celestial player being Jupiter, known as "Guru" in Tamil.

2. Jupiter's Influence: In Tamil tradition, the presence of Jupiter in the zodiac sign of Mesha (Aries) during the Tamil month of Chittirai is considered auspicious for the commencement of the New Year. The belief is rooted in the significance attributed to Jupiter's impact on human life, prosperity, and overall well-being. This cosmic alignment is said to bring positive energy and abundance for the coming year.​

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Rituals and Celebrations:

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1. Kolam and Decorations: The day begins with households adorned with colorful Kolams (rangoli-like designs) at their entrances. These intricate patterns symbolize prosperity and are believed to invite positive energy into the home.

2. Special Poojas and Offerings: Devotees visit temples to seek blessings from the deities for a prosperous year ahead. Special poojas (rituals) are performed, and offerings, including fruits, flowers, and symbolic items, are made to the gods.

3. Feast and Family Time: Tamil New Year is a time for families to come together. A festive feast, known as the "Puthandu Sadhya," is prepared, featuring a variety of traditional dishes. Sharing this meal with family and friends signifies unity and the joy of togetherness.

4. Auspicious Activities: The day is considered auspicious for initiating new ventures, purchasing valuable items, and seeking the blessings of elders. It is believed that actions undertaken on this day will yield positive outcomes throughout the year.

 

THAIPOOSAM AND THE SACRED RITUAL OF CAVADEE: 

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Thaipoosam:

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1. Festival Significance:

   • Thaipusam is a Hindu festival celebrated by the Tamil community, usually in the Tamil month of Thai (January-February).

   • It honors Lord Muruga (Kartikeya) and commemorates the occasion when the goddess Parvati gave him a divine spear to vanquish the demon Soorapadman.

2. Festival Preparations:

   • Devotees prepare for Thaipusam by observing fasts and engaging in prayers in the lead-up to the festival.

3. Pilgrimage to Murugan Temples:

   • Pilgrims undertake journeys to Murugan temples, especially the Six Abodes (Arupadaiveedu) in Tamil Nadu, seeking blessings and offering prayers.

4. Devotional Acts:

   • Thaipoosam is known for various devotional acts, including carrying Cavadees, piercing the skin with vel spears, and performing other acts of penance.

5. Cavadee Attam:

   • A central element of Thaipoosam is the Cavadee Attam, a form of worship involving the carrying of Cavadees as a physical burden symbolizing devotion and penance.

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SKANDA SASHTI FESTIVAL: A Celebration of Lord Muruga in Tamil Tradition

Skanda Sashti, a significant festival in the Tamil community, is dedicated to the worship of Lord Muruga, also known as Skanda, Kartikeya, or Subramanya. Celebrated in the Tamil month of Aippasi (October-November), Skanda Sashti spans six days, culminating on the sixth day. This festival commemorates the divine victory of Lord Muruga over the demon Surapadman, symbolising the triumph of good over evil.

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Rituals and Observances:

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Fasting and Austerities:

• Devotees observe a six-day fast, known as "Skanda Sashti Viratham," abstaining from certain foods and engaging in austerities.

• The fast is undertaken to seek the blessings of Lord Muruga and purify the mind and body.

 

Cavadee Attam:

• One of the most iconic aspects of Skanda Sashti is the performance of "Kavadi Attam." Devotees carry ornate structures, known as kavadis, adorned with flowers and peacock feathers, symbolizing their devotion and penance.

• The kavadis are often carried on shoulders and may involve intricate rituals, including piercing the skin with small skewers, as an act of self-sacrifice.

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Temple Celebrations:

• Temples dedicated to Lord Muruga, such as the Arupadaiveedu temples in Tamil Nadu, witness grand celebrations during Skanda Sashti.

• Special poojas (rituals), abhishekams (ritual baths), and processions are organized, drawing devotees from far and wide.

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Recitation of Scriptures:

• Devotees engage in the recitation of scriptures dedicated to Lord Muruga, such as the "Kanda Sashti Kavasam," a hymn composed in praise of the deity.

• The recitation of these sacred verses is believed to invoke divine blessings and protection.

 

Legend of Skanda Sashti:

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Surapadman's Challenge:

• According to mythology, the demon Surapadman posed a formidable challenge to the gods, leading to their plea to Lord Shiva for intervention.

• Lord Shiva, in response to the prayers, created Muruga to vanquish Surapadman and restore cosmic balance.

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Lord Muruga's Victory:

• The battle between Lord Muruga and Surapadman lasted for six days. On the sixth day, Muruga, wielding his divine spear, Vel, defeated the demon, symbolizing the triumph of righteousness.

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Karthigai Deepam:

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Celebration:

• Karthigai Deepam is a festival of lights celebrated by Tamil Hindus. It usually falls in the Tamil month of Karthigai (November-December).

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Significance:

• The main ritual is the lighting of lamps or deepams, both in homes and in temples, to symbolize the triumph of light over darkness and the dispelling of ignorance.

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Lighting of the Maha Deepam:

• The most prominent aspect of Karthigai Deepam is the lighting of the Maha Deepam atop the Arunachala Hill in Thiruvannamalai. This large flame is visible for miles and is considered highly auspicious.

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Spiritual Significance:

• Devotees believe that lighting lamps during this festival brings prosperity, happiness, and spiritual enlightenment.

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Traditional Foods:

• Special dishes, such as Pori Urundai (sweet puffed rice balls) and Adai (a type of dosa), are prepared as offerings during Karthigai Deepam.

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Karthikeya:

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Deity of War and Wisdom:

• Karthikeya, also known as Muruga, Skanda, or Kartikeya, is a Hindu deity and the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. He is considered the God of War, Wisdom, and Victory.

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Iconography:

• Karthikeya is often depicted as a young and handsome god, riding a peacock and wielding a spear or Vel. The Vel symbolizes the destruction of ignorance.

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Associations:

• Devotees seek the blessings of Karthikeya for courage, wisdom, and victory over challenges.

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Celebrations:

• Festivals dedicated to Karthikeya, such as Skanda Sashti, are celebrated with fervor. Devotees fast, perform rituals, and express their devotion through acts of penance.

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Temples:

• Temples dedicated to Karthikeya, including the famous Six Abodes (Arupadaiveedu) in Tamil Nadu, attract pilgrims seeking the deity's blessings.

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Both Karthigai Deepam and the worship of Karthikeya play significant roles in the cultural and spiritual fabric of the Tamil community, showcasing the reverence for light, wisdom, and the divine.

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Other Major Tamil Festivals:

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Pongal:

Pongal is a harvest festival celebrated in mid-January, marking the end of the winter solstice. The festival spans four days and involves the preparation of a special dish called Pongal, made with newly harvested rice.

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Deepavali:

Deepavali, or Diwali, is the festival of lights celebrated in October or November. Homes are illuminated with lamps, and fireworks are set off to symbolize the triumph of light over darkness.

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Cultural Significance:

Tamil festivals are not just religious events but also cultural celebrations that reinforce a sense of community and shared identity. Through rituals, traditions, and festivities, these occasions connect the Tamil community across generations, fostering a deep appreciation for cultural heritage and spiritual values. The alignment of celebrations with astronomical events underscores the holistic integration of science, spirituality, and cultural practices in the Tamil tradition.

 

THIRUKKURAL: A Brief Introduction

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1. Definition:

• Thirukkural, also known as the Kural, is a classic Tamil text consisting of 1,330 couplets or Kurals. It is a work of ethical and philosophical literature authored by the ancient Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar.

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2. Author:

• Thiruvalluvar is believed to have lived sometime between the 3rd and 1st centuries BCE. The exact dates are uncertain, and the identity of the poet remains a subject of historical and scholarly debate.

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3. Structure:

• The Thirukkural is organized into three books, each dealing with a specific aspect of life:

  • Aram (Virtue/Righteousness)

  • Porul (Wealth/Prosperity)

  • Inbam (Love/Desire)

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4. Themes:

• Thirukkural covers a wide range of topics, offering guidance on morality, ethics, governance, love, and various aspects of human life. It presents a comprehensive guide to leading a righteous and fulfilling life.

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Selected Thirukkural Quotes:

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1. "A" for Almighty:

   • Original Tamil: "அகர முதல எழுத்தெல்லாம் ஆதி"

   • Transliteration: "A" is the first of all letters; the first source is the Almighty.

2. "Love Begets Love":

   • Original Tamil: "காக்க விடா கயிறு நிலம்போல் எனினும் மாக்கா தொழில் நணிந்து."

   • Transliteration: "Love begets love, just as the bamboo blossoms into an open flower."

3. "To Forgive is Divine":

   • Original Tamil: "கொள்ளாதான் கொள்ளாமை அறிந்து கொள்ளாதான் கொள்ளாமை அறிந்து."

   • Transliteration: "He who has learned not to harm others has learned the essence of non-violence."

4. "Wealth and Charity":

   • Original Tamil: "அந்நியாய தின்றான் அவன் கைவிடும் உலகம் அவன் அகஎவன்."

   • Transliteration: "He who consumes what is not rightfully his will eventually lose even what he has."

5. "The Importance of Education":

   • Original Tamil: "கற்றது கைமண் அளவு, கல்லாதது உலகளவு."

   • Transliteration: "What one has learned is like a handful of sand, while what one has yet to learn is like the whole world."

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Thirukkural continues to be highly regarded for its timeless wisdom and has been translated into numerous languages. Its succinct verses encompass a profound understanding of human nature, ethics, and the principles of righteous living.

It also provides valuable lessons for business and entrepreneurs.

 

Here are some key lessons that entrepreneurs can draw from the verses of Thirukkural:

1. Ethical Conduct (Aram):

   • Kural 1: "A" for Austerity

     • Lesson: Practice ethical conduct in business dealings. Honesty, integrity, and transparency form the foundation of a successful and sustainable business.

2. Leadership (Aram):

   • Kural 548: "A Leader’s Qualities"

     • Lesson: Leaders should possess virtues such as humility, empathy, and fairness. Leading by example fosters a positive work culture.

3. Planning and Strategy (Porul):

   • Kural 467: "Wealth is a Tree"

     • Lesson: Like a tree that grows over time, wealth in business requires strategic planning, patience, and consistent effort for long-term success.

4. Risk Management (Porul):

   • Kural 461: "Identifying Opportunities"

     • Lesson: Identify and assess opportunities and risks carefully. Entrepreneurship involves calculated risks, and informed decision-making is crucial.

5. Customer Relations (Inbam):

   • Kural 391: "Customer Satisfaction"

     • Lesson: Prioritize customer satisfaction. A satisfied customer becomes a loyal advocate, contributing to the success and reputation of the business.

6. Team Building (Aram):

   • Kural 451: "Unity in a Team"

     • Lesson: Foster unity and collaboration among team members. A cohesive team is essential for achieving common goals and overcoming challenges.

7. Adaptability (Porul):

   • Kural 472: "Adaptability"

     • Lesson: Business landscapes evolve. Being adaptable and open to change is crucial for staying relevant and seizing new opportunities.

8. Innovation (Porul):

   • Kural 465: "Innovation"

     • Lesson: Embrace innovation and creativity. Businesses that innovate can differentiate themselves, staying ahead in competitive markets.

9. Financial Prudence (Porul):

   • Kural 500: "Wealth Management"

     • Lesson: Exercise financial discipline and manage resources wisely. Financial prudence ensures the sustainability and growth of the business.

10. Communication (Inbam):

    • Kural 377: "Effective Communication"

      • Lesson: Clear and effective communication is essential. Entrepreneurs should communicate their vision, expectations, and feedback to build understanding and trust.

11. Social Responsibility (Aram):

    • Kural 529: "Social Responsibility"

      • Lesson: Embrace social responsibility. Contributing positively to the community and society enhances the reputation of the business.

12. Persistence and Resilience (Porul):

    • Kural 595: "Perseverance"

      • Lesson: Entrepreneurship involves challenges. Perseverance and resilience in the face of setbacks are key to long-term success.

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Entrepreneurs can find inspiration and practical guidance in Thirukkural, integrating its ethical principles and practical insights into their business practices for a more meaningful and sustainable entrepreneurial journey.

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Yours Sincerely,

 Atma