The month of Margazhi holds a special place in the hearts of both Vaishnavites and Saivites. Embracing the Tamil Margali Masam, or Margazhi Month, signifies a harmonious blend of devotion and music. In the year 2023, Margazhi month commences on Thursday, December 17, 2023, and concludes on Thursday, January 14, 2024.
The resonance of Margazhi echoes in the Bhagavad Gita, where Lord Krishna proclaims, “Maasanam Margasheershoham – among the twelve months, I am Markali.” This period witnessed the enchanting rendering of Thiruppavai and Thiruvempavai, alongside religious discourses and vibrant music festivals.
What is Margazhi?
The auspicious month of Margasheersha, known as Margazhi in Tamil holds significance for spiritual growth, encompassing practices such as Sadhana, Vrata, Bhajan, or Pooja for the devotees of Shiva, Shakti, Vishnu, and others.
Named after the Mrigshira Nakshatra, which aligns with the full moon closest to the Orion constellation, Margasheersha is often interpreted as ‘the one that leads us to the right path.’
Festivals Celebrated
Margazhi is a canvas painted with several festivals. Gita Jayanti graces the Shukla Ekadashi, and Mokshada Ekadashi or Vaikuntha Ekadasi falls within this sacred month. Kalabhairava Ashtami illuminates the Krishna Paksha Ashtami, marking the day when Shiva manifested as Kalabhairava. Thiruvathira or Arudhra Darisanam, celebrated with grandeur in Tamil Nadu and Kerala, pays homage to the cosmic dance of Shiva as Nataraja. Dattatreya Jayani, Katyayani Vrata, and the pilgrimage to the holy shrine of Sri Ayyappa in Sabarimala also find their place in this spiritually charged month.
Margazhi preserves a space for spiritual activities, avoiding auspicious events and marriages as it symbolizes the dawn period for Devas, emphasizing worship over other auspicious activities.
The Significance of Margasheersha
With the onset of Maargasheersha, the weather cools down, creating an ideal setting for spiritual practices. According to Ayurveda, the bodily fire recedes within, becoming strong and facilitating digestion and assimilation.
Maargasheersha marks the end of Dakshiyana, the Sun’s apparent southward movement, concluding the Sadhanapada, and leading to Kaivalyapada—the period of enjoying the fruits of one’s labor.
Religious Activities in Margazhi Month
Margali Month holds immense spiritual importance, highlighted by Lord Krishna’s words in the Bhagavad Gita, “Among the twelve months, I am Margazhi.” A pivotal event during this month is the chanting of the Tiruppavai of Andal, consisting of 30 verses, with each verse chanted daily. Tiruppavai is recited as the morning prayer at the Tirumala Tirupati Temple, adding to the divine ambiance.
Another captivating tradition during Margazhi is the daily drawing of kolams (rangoli) in front of houses, showcasing breathtaking designs.
Scientific Reason
Margazhi offers more than just spiritual significance; it intertwines with science. The Tamil month commencing on December 16 aligns with Earth’s closest proximity to the sun. In the northern hemisphere, though it should be the hottest month, it’s the coolest due to the Earth’s northern face being away from the sun.
This unique angle diffuses the sun’s rays, creating a cooling effect. The maximum pull of the sun’s gravity occurs on January 2, coinciding with the planet’s closest position to the sun, affecting the human system by pulling from the base.
Conclusion
As Margazhi unfolds its spiritual and scientific marvels, seize the opportunity to deepen your spiritual experiences. Explore divine puja products at poojai.com and make this Tamil month even more special by embracing the richness of its traditions and rituals. Dive into the cultural and spiritual tapestry that Margazhi unfurls and let the echoes of devotion resonate in your heart.