In Hinduism, dedicating an entire month to honour Lord Venkateswara (an incarnation of Lord Vishnu), the preserver of the universe, is one of the most important cultural and spiritual practices. The month of Purattasi (mid-September to mid-October) holds immense significance in the Tamil calendar and is marked by devotion and some rituals. Purattasi is an auspicious time for devotees to worship the divine and seek blessings for good health, prosperity, and overall well-being.
Significance of Purattasi
The month of Purattasi is considered especially ideal for worshipping Lord Venkateswara. According to astrology, the Tamil month of Purattasi commences when the Sun transitions into the Virgo zodiac sign. In Hinduism, it is believed that during this month Lord Venkateswara descended to Earth to protect his devotees from the challenges of the Kali Yuga.
During the month of Purattasi, devotees follow a vegetarian diet and fast to honour Lord Venkateswara. There is also a scientific reason behind this practice. In the month of Purattasi, humidity in the air decreases while the heat increases. Consuming non-vegetarian foods that are spicy and oily during this time can hinder digestion and lead to stomach-related issues. By observing a vegetarian fast during this month, one can avoid such digestive problems and maintain better health.
Purattasi Sani (Saturday)
The Saturdays of Purattasi, referred to as "Purattasi Sani," are considered deeply sacred. Devotees believe that by observing fasts and offering special prayers on these days, they can receive the divine blessings of Lord Venkateswara. Those experiencing "Sani Sade Sati" (Saturn's seven-and-a-half-year influence) can fast to reduce its effects. Visiting an Anjaneyar (Hanuman) temple on these Saturdays is also thought to protect against planetary afflictions (graha doshas).
Purattasi Sani (Saturdays) dates
- 21st September 2024: First Purattasi Sani (This day is particularly auspicious as Sankatahara Chaturthi also occurs on this day)
- 28th September 2024: Second Purattasi Sani
- 5th October 2024: Third Purattasi Sani
- 12th October 2024: Fourth Purattasi Sani
Purattasi Amavasya
Purattasi month is marked by several festivals, including Mahalaya Amavasya (Pitru Paksha) and Navratri. The first half of Purattasi is dedicated to Mahalaya Paksha. There is a saying that even those who do not perform Tarpanam (a ritual for ancestors) on any other Amavasya will earn merit if they do so on Mahalaya Amavasya in the month of Purattasi.
Rituals Observed During Purattasi
- Fasting and Vegetarian Diet: Many devotees observe a strict vegetarian diet throughout the month of Purattasi. Some even opt for complete fasting or partial fasting on Saturdays to show their devotion and seek the blessings of Lord Venkateswara.
- Saturday Pooja: On the Saturdays of Purattasi, devotees observe fasting and prepare special dishes known as Purattasi Thaligai. This assortment typically includes dishes such as curd rice, chakarai pongal (jaggery rice), ven pongal (rice pongal), panchamuratham etc. These offerings are presented to Lord Venkateswara as part of the ritual, holding a special significance in the worship process.
- Mudi Kanikkai (Hair Offering): One of the unique rituals observed during this month is the practice of offering hair at the Tirumala Tirupati temple. This act of shaving one's head is seen as a way of surrendering one’s ego and pride before the Lord.
- Vahanam Procession: During the Purattasi Brahmotsavam, a grand procession of Lord Venkateswara is carried out on various vahanams (vehicles), such as Garuda Vahanam, Hanumantha Vahanam, and more.
- Special Darshan at Temples: Temples, especially the Tirumala Tirupati temple, witness a surge in devotees during this month. Special "darshan" (viewing of the deity) arrangements are made for the devotees, and the temple authorities conduct special rituals, poojas, and "Brahmotsavam" festivals.
Practices to avoid during Purattasi
- Purattasi month is considered a time for deep devotion to the Lord. During this period, the focus is on worship and spiritual activities rather than on personal celebrations. As a result, it is traditionally advised to avoid conducting weddings and other major family events during Purattasi, as they might divert attention from the sacred purpose of the month.
- It is not advisable to move into a new house or make major property changes during Purattasi month, as this period is not considered auspicious for Vastu Shastra practices. If it is necessary to move, first pray to Lord Venkateswara before proceeding with the relocation.
- When fasting on Purattasi Saturdays, it is deemed inauspicious to consume non-vegetarian items like meat, fish, and eggs. Moreover, abstaining from alcohol is advised during this time, as it is thought to impede spiritual advancement.
Tirupati Brahmotsavam
Purattasi brings to mind Tirumala Tirupati and the presence of Lord Venkatachalapathi. Grand processions are held in Tirumala Tirupati, where millions of devotees gather to witness these events, which are believed to bestow divine blessings.
- October 3, 2024 – Senadhipathi Utsavam and Ankurarpanam: The festivities begin with the Senadhipathi Utsavam and the Ankurarpanam, marking the ceremonial planting of seeds in preparation for the Brahmotsavam.
- October 4, 2024 – Tirucchi Utsavam Dwajarohanam and Pedda Sesha Vahanam: The Dwajarohanam (flag hoisting) for the Tirucchi Utsavam takes place, followed by the Pedda Sesha Vahanam, where the deity is paraded on the large Sesha (serpent) vehicle.
- October 5, 2024 – Chinna Sesha Vahanam and Hamsa Vahanam: The Chinna Sesha Vahanam and the Hamsa Vahanam (vehicle of the swan) are the highlights of the day, featuring special processions.
- October 6, 2024 – Simha Vahanam and Muthyapu Pandiri Vahanam: The deity is honoured with the Simha Vahanam (lion vehicle) and the Muthyapu Pandiri Vahanam (pearl-studded vehicle).
- October 7, 2024 – Kalpa Vruksha Vahanam and Sarva Bhupala Vahanam: Celebrations include the Kalpa Vruksha Vahanam (divine tree vehicle) and the Sarva Bhupala Vahanam (vehicle of the ruler of all lands).
- October 8, 2024 – Mohini Avataram and Garuda Vahanam: The Mohini Avataram (the divine enchantress) and the Garuda Vahanam (vehicle of the mythical eagle) are featured.
- October 9, 2024 – Hanumantha Vahanam, Vasanthotsavam, and Gaja Vahanam: The Hanumantha Vahanam (vehicle of Hanuman), Vasanthotsavam (spring festival), and the Gaja Vahanam (elephant vehicle) are celebrated.
- October 10, 2024 – Surya Prabha Vahanam and Chandra Prabha Vahanam: The Surya Prabha Vahanam (vehicle of the sun) and Chandra Prabha Vahanam (vehicle of the moon) processions take place.
- October 11, 2024 – Rathotsavam and Aswa Vahanam: The grand Rathotsavam (chariot festival) and the Aswa Vahanam (horse vehicle) are featured.
- October 12, 2024 – Pallaki Utsavam, Teertha Vari, and Chakra Snanam: The festival concludes with the Pallaki Utsavam (palanquin festival), Teertha Vari (holy water procession), and Chakra Snanam (sacred bath with the divine wheel). The Tirucchi Utsavam ends with the Dwaja Avarohanam (lowering of the flag).
Purattasi is a deeply spiritual time for devotion and seeking divine blessings. To fully embrace its significance, consider visiting the Tirumala Tirupati temple. At Om Spiritual Shop, explore our Venkateswara idols and special combo products, including Perumal Vilakku and Perumal Patham, crafted to bring divine light into your home. Visit our website to enhance your Purattasi celebrations with these sacred treasures.