Thiruvathira
MalayalamAlso known as: Thiruvathirai
Thiruvathira
About Thiruvathira
Thiruvathira is celebrated on the 13th day of the dark fortnight in Dhanu (December-January) and is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
The day is especially significant for married women who observe the Thiruvathira vratham for the long life and prosperity of their husbands.
Traditional Thiruvathira dance (a graceful dance performed by women in a circle) is a highlight of the celebrations.
In Kerala, the festival is celebrated with special pujas at Shiva temples and traditional dance performances.
Vrat Vidhi & Fasting Rules
Women observe a strict fast and perform special Shiva-Parvati worship.
- Wake up before dawn and take a ritual bath.
- Observe a complete fast throughout the day.
- Perform Shiva-Parvati pujas with flowers and offerings.
- Participate in or watch the Thiruvathira dance.
Parana (Breaking Fast) Note: The fast is broken after the evening Shiva-Parvati puja with a feast of payasam and traditional dishes.
Puja Samagri & Ritual Steps
- Clean and decorate the Shiva altar with flowers.
- Offer betel leaves, nuts, and flowers to Lord Shiva and Parvati.
- Perform traditional Thiruvathira dance.
- Distribute prasad to devotees.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Thiruvathira is a graceful traditional dance performed by women in a circle, celebrating the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
Married women observe the Thiruvathira vratham for the long life and prosperity of their husbands.
Note: All timings are represented in 24-hour notation in local time of the selected location with DST adjustment (if applicable).
Hours which are past midnight are suffixed with next day date. In Panchang, a day starts and ends with local sunrise.
Recommended Pages
Comprehensive annual Hindu calendar with tithis and festivals.
Detailed month-wise view of lunar tithis and celestial events.
Marathi Panchang and festive dates for the year.
Gujarati Vikram Samvat calendar and festivals.
Telugu calendar and festive Panchangam details.
Tamil solar calendar dates and monthly Panchangam.