(Source: Amila Tennakoon/Wikimedia Commons; designed by Nidhi Mishra/Indian Express)People in Tamil Nadu are gearing up to celebrate Puthandu (Tamil for new year) on April 14, this year. Set with the lunisolar Hindu calendar’s solar cycle, it is the first day of the traditional Tamil new year and marks a public holiday in Tamil Nadu as well as Sri Lanka. ALSO READ | Baisakhi 2018 Date: History, Importance, Significance of the FestivalALSO READ | Bihu 2018: Date, History, Significance of The Assamese FestivalOn this day, people in Tamil Nadu spend time with their families after they clean up the house, take part in prayers and offerings and start the day by making a visit to the temples. In some parts of Tamil Nadu, the festival is also called ‘Chittirai Vishu’. ALSO READ | Vishu 2018: Significance, Important Traditions and History of the Malayalam New YearALSO READ | Baisakhi 2018: How to celebrate baisakhiThe mangai-pachadi (Nithyasrm, Thamiziniyn/Wikimedia Commons) The mangai-pachadi (Nithyasrm, Thamiziniyn/Wikimedia Commons)A scrumptious feast spread that awaits one on the day of Puthuvarusham.

Source: Indian Express April 12, 2018 14:42 UTC