Science and Tradition of Purattasi Month

Purattasi is considered an auspicious month, especially for those who follow the Tamil Hindu calendar. Wonder why? Read below to know why it is auspicious, the science behind it, the traditions and how to celebrate it.  

What Is The Month of Purattasi, And Why Is It Special?

Purattasi is the sixth month in the traditional Tamil Calendar and falls between mid-September and mid-October. This month is believed to be special as it beautifully blends tradition and science. The Puratasi Month/Masam teaches you to care for your mental and physical well-being while staying connected to your roots. The practice of fasting and visiting temples is among the main rituals practised for centuries across religions and cultures. The Purattasi month is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and thus is considered auspicious.

According to mythological tales, Lord Vishnu descended to Earth about 5000 years ago during this month to save the people from demons. Thus, Vishnu devotees consider it a special divine month to thank the Lord for protecting the planet.  

Practices Followed In the Purattasi Month

As mentioned earlier, this month is dedicated to Lord Vishnu as a gesture of gratitude for protecting the earth. People visit Lord Vishnu temples or places where He is worshipped as the primary deity. The Tirupati Tirumala temple in Andhra Pradesh is the most visited temple during this month. All Vishnu Saturdays of this month are considered auspicious and special, and worshipping him on this day shields them from harm that arises from Shani (the God of Karma), and thus he is considered the God of Protection.

During Purattasi Viratham/Saturdays, some people fast and dedicate it to Lord Vishnu. Many others prepare Purattasi Thaligai, a buffet of steamed rice, vegetable curries, vadai (fritters), payasam, Kesari (sweets) and fruits and offer it to the Lord.

Famous Temples To Visit During Purattasi Month

Devotees visit temples where Lord Vishnu is the primary deity. Some of the temples considered auspicious to visit during Purattasi are -

● Tirumala Venkateshwara Temple, Tirumala

● Sri Koodal Azhagar Temple, Madurai

● Sri Ranaganathar Temple, Karamadai

● Sri Oppiliappan Temple, Kumbakonam

● Srirangam Ranganathaswamy Temple, Trichy

● Perumal Malai Temple, Thuriyur (South Tirupati)

Scientific Significance of the Purattasi Month

Tamil culture, tradition, and ideas are steeped in a vibrant culture and have a rich history that dates back 5,000 years. They are among the civilisations that are not only spiritual but have had scientific ideas even before technological advancements. It is astounding to know that every ritual, festivals and custom followed by Tamil people have a scientific reasoning behind it.

Abstinence to Avoid Digestive Problems

People abstain from having non-vegetarian and meat dishes during the Purattasi month. This act of restraint from consuming non-vegetarian food may be due to the ritual of visiting the Lord Vishnu temple during this month. Though this reason holds good for spiritual people, it is startling to know that the reason to avoid meat has a scientific basis. Purattasi falls in mid-September, which is the start of autumn, when the temperature is relatively cooler and daylight is longer. This combination may lead to infections and fatigue for those with weak immunity. Meat is harder to digest compared to plant-based foods, and abstaining from it prevents digestive issues.

Fasting for Good Gut Health

Fasting may be a current health trend, but this practice has been followed for centuries and is considered an ancient medical approach to promoting good health. Whether you are eating low-calorie food or not eating food at all, experts believe it is good to allow the body to go without food to maintain gut health. Many people who fast during Purattasi are bestowed with good gut health. So they do not even consume vegetarian food, as fasting helps maintain good metabolism, reduces anxiety, maintains blood sugar and supports cardiac health. As people rarely like to fast, Purattasi month is the perfect time to fast, protect from health issues, as well as to do a spiritual practice.

Get Vitamin D

Purattasi is a time when the weather is not conducive to going out. So people tend to stay indoors and miss out on getting Vitamin D. This may lead to allergic reactions in kids, BP fluctuations in adults and frailty among the young. To avoid these health issues, people are advised to visit temples to receive the much-needed sunshine.

Visit Temples and Feel the Placebo Effect

A temple is a place that has positive energy. It is said that ancient temples were built in such a way that they could give positive vibrations. So walking barefoot on the floors sends positive vibrations throughout the body. Additionally, the temple bells create an Om sound, which tends to reduce negativities. Since the Purattasi month causes many ailments, visiting temples may have a placebo effect on the physical and mental health of devotees.

Conclusion

Purattasi is a special month that combines tradition and science. It teaches you to connect with your roots and take care of your health. To reap the full benefits of Purattasi, embrace its scientific and traditional aspects.