Dhanu, Margali month, Dhanurmasam, Margazhi Month, Maargazhi Masam, மார்கழி
Margazhi (மார்கழி) is the most beautiful month in the Tamil calendar. It is also known as Dhanu month or Dhanurmasam and is the ninth month in tamil calender. This month starts with Dhanu Sankranti, When he sun transits through Sagittarius sign, the house of Jupiter and ends with the Makara Sankranti day. This month is considered as a highly spiritual and divine month. Reading Tiruppavai, Tiruvembavai and music festivals are the major highlights during this month.
Significance of Margazhi Month
Imaporance of Margazhi masam, Significance of Danurmasam
This month is named Margazhi because the holy star Mrigashirsha combines with Poornima thithi during this month. Lord Krishna says in Bhagavad Gita that “Maasanam Margasheershoham”, which means “I am Margazhi” i.e this month is auspicious among the twelve months. Poet Thirumoolar also mentioned about the greatness of this month in his book “Thiru Manthiram”.
Waking up early considered auspicious during the Margazi month. There is also scientific significance. Margazi Masam is also the winter solstice time, when the nigts are longer and the days are shorter. Waking up early means covering it up. Ozone layer is also little bit lower during this month, waking up early considered healthy during this month.
Rituals of Margazhi Month
During Margazhi month, people arise early in Brahma Muhurta (one and half hours before sunrise), take bath and worship God Vishnu. Devotees visit temples everyday for the whole month. People draw kolams and rangolis infront of their homes. Tirupavai Pasurams is rendered in the early morning in all temples and houses.
Margazi month is also called as Zero month or Shunya masam or Cybher month by the people. People do not celebrate any household functions during this month.
Festivals of Margazhi Masa
Festivals in the Margazi month are Vaikunta Ekadasi, Hanuman Jayanthi, Bhogi and Arudara Darshan. Pagal Pathu Raa Pathu utsavams are also celebrated during this month. Margazhi also marks the end of the pilgrimage season in Shabarimala.
