Aani Uthiram 

Aani Uthiram is an auspicious day to worship of Lord Nataraja avatar of Lord Shiva. This day is highly significant in the Chidambaram Temple, a Sthala for Akash element(sky/ether). The day on which Uthra/Utthiram nakshatra falls in the tamizh month of Aani (June-July) is celebrated as Aani Utthiram. 

Aani Uthiram 2023

Lord Nataraja,the symbolic form of cosmic creation or Big Bang is celebrated on this day. A popular ritual called “Aani Thirumanjanam” is performed at Chidambaram Nataraja Temple. “Thirumanjanam” means “Holy hydration ceremony or a Holy bath”. Other special rituals like Archana-sound ceremonies, homas(fire ceremonies), grand processions of the Urchavar Idol are performed on this day. Aani Utthiram also signifies an important event in the culture of Shaivism. Lord Shiva appeared and offered Deeksha for Saint Maanikavaasagar underneath a Kurundai tree (botanical name- Atalantia Racemosa wight) on this auspicious day.

Lord Nataraja form of Lord Shiva represents five major roles in the cosmic universe - creation, preservation, destruction, occlusion, and salvation. Lord Nataraja Avatar encompasses all this functions, of his four hands- the Damaru (udukkai) that he holds in his right hand denotes creation, the abhaya hastam on the other right hand indicates protection. The fire in His left hand and downward facing second left arm demonstrate the function of destruction. The firm foot of the Lord placed on a knife wielding man, represents salvation and the raised leg signifies occlusion/concealment.

People visit the Chidambaram Temple on this day and worship Lord Nataraja. Shiva Devotees fast the whole day or break their fast after sunset with a simple sattvic meal. Divine Thiruvasagam- tamizh hymns composed by Saint Maanikavaasagar is recited on this day. 

Aani Uthiram festival dates between 2019 & 2029

Other Related Festivals