Avani Moolam – Festival on Avani Moolam Nakshatram

Avani Moolam is a unique festival observed in Tamil culture on the Moolam Nakshatram day in Avani month (August – September). Avani Moolam 2023 date is August 26. Avani Moolam festival is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The most important Avani Moolam festival and rituals are held at the Madurai Meenakshi Temple.

Special processions are held on the day in Madurai Meenakshi Temple. The festival is basically dedicated to the reenactment of a famous incident involving Lord Shiva. Also known as Puttu festival, Avani Moolam is based on a local legend and is referred as the sport of carrying soil for the wages of rice pudding.

An important legend in which Lord Shiva sends his Ganas as horses to keep the promise of Saint Manikkavasagar is believed to have happened on Avani Moolam day.