The state of Tamil Nadu is the origin of Dravidian culture. All the temples and monuments in the state are the best examples of Dravidian architecture. The state has made priceless contributions to the music, art, and literature of India. Bharatnatyam, one of the famous Indian dance forms, has its origin here. Tamil Nadu fairs and festivals are important events that happen round the year and lead to millions of footfalls from different corners of the world.
All the fairs and carnivals in the state are observed with pomp and glory. Given below are some of the popular Tamil Nadu fairs and festivals:
Natyanjali Dance Festival
This festival takes place at Chidambaram, which is located beside the shoreline of the Bay of Bengal at a distance of 75 km from Pondicherry. The carnival begins from the day of Mahashivaratri and goes on for five days. The Natyanjali Dance Festival is the ideal means to pay tribute to Lord Nataraja, who is regarded as the lord of dancers. The Nataraj Temple is situated in a heavenly ambience.
Pongal
The Pongal is also known as the Harvest Festival. It is observed to offer homage to the Nature, Sun and Cattle for supporting people with a thriving harvest and affluence. The conventional cuisine of Pongal or boiled rice with milk and jaggery is made at every house.
Tourist Fair Chennai
This fair in Chennai makes you familiar with the cultural resources, tourist attractions, and economic situation of Tamil Nadu. It is usually held in January.
Chithirai Festival Madurai
The renowned Madurai temple is the home to this event, which is approximately 500 km from Chennai. This colorful event begins from the start of the Tamil month of Chithirai and concludes on the 10th day of the month. The event is a magnificent rebuilding of the wedding of Princess Meenakshi of the Pandyas to Lord Sundareswarar.
Dance Festival Mamallapuram
This event starts on December 25th of each year and is celebrated on all Saturdays. Outdoor stages have been constructed approximately 1,300 years back. The remarkable monolithic stony carvings of the Pallava rulers are located beside the sea in the prehistoric city of Mamallapuram. This occasion is a true visual feast for the dance lovers. Dances performed include Bharatha Natyam, Kathakali, Kuchipudi, and Odissi.
Mahamagam
This event is a sacred occasion that draws one to Kumbakonam once in every 12 years. Kumbakonam is known as the city of temples.
Aurbathimoovar
The expression "Arubathimoovar" factually denotes the 63 saints of Shiva, worshipped for living admirable lives of dedication and atonement. Bronze statues of the 63 saints adorn the spectacular Kapaliswar temple at Mylapore, Chennai. Once every year, these statues are taken out in a vibrant parade through the roads of Mylapore.
Summer Festivals
These carnivals take place in the various picturesque hill stations of the state. During this time, the hills get a new look. Adventure sports, cultural events, flower shows, and boat races increase the vigor of the event. Saral Vizha (Kuttalm or Courtallm)
The Sarai Vizha is just a customary way of bathing. Definitely, a bath at the beautiful Courtallam waterfalls is no everyday affair. The healing waters of the boisterous fall are renowned for their therapeutic characteristics.
Kanthuri Festival
Kanthuri is an absolutely secular event where religious devotees assemble at the Saint Quadirwali's Shrine. It is assumed to benefit followers of all religions.
Kavadi Festival
This event is celebrated to pay respect to Lord Muruga. It is observed in all the temples of Lord Muruga.
Velankanni
This carnival takes place for nine days. It begins on August 29 and ends on September 8. It is observed to signify the birth anniversary of Mother Mary.
Navrathri
Navrathri is celebrated in this state in a slightly different manner. Dolls, also known as Golu, are made and put on display.
Karthigai Deepam
It is also named as the "Festival of Lights" and it is one of the most colorful carnivals in the state. Karthigai Deepam is a very old event in Southern India which takes place on a full moon day. Small lamps are lit by people, embodying the Agni Linga.
Thyagaraja Music Festival
This Carnatic music carnival is held at Thiruvariyar. It takes place every year. The fiesta started to pay tribute to Saint Thyagaraja and is a treat for music lovers.
Last Updated on 2/15/2011
