Other important and auspicious days include Sri Narayana Guru Samadhi day (September 21) and Amritanandamayi Birthday (September 27).
Navratri begins on September 22
Next month in Malayalam calendar is the Thula Masam
Kanni Masam: The Second Month of the Malayalam Hindu Calendar
Meaning and Calendar Context
Kanni Masam, the second month of the traditional Malayalam Hindu calendar, roughly aligns with mid-September to mid-October in the Gregorian calendar. In celestial terms, it corresponds to the zodiac sign Virgo, known locally as Kanni. This period follows the month of Chingam and precedes Thulam, marking a time of transition from the heat of late summer into the early embrace of the monsoon’s retreat.
Cultural and Religious Importance
For Malayali Hindus, each month carries its own spiritual tone, and Kanni is no exception. It serves as a season of devotional renewal and community gatherings. Agricultural life, once dominated by paddy cultivation, would historically allow some respite after the main harvest, providing an opportunity for rural families to partake more fully in temple festivals and religious observances.
Sri Narayana Guru Samadhi (Kanni 5)
One of the most significant commemorations in Kanni is the Samadhi Day of Sri Narayana Guru, observed on Kanni 5. Sri Narayana Guru (1855–1928) was a revered spiritual reformer whose teachings on social equality and universal brotherhood transformed Kerala society. On this day, followers gather at the Guru’s samadhi temples—most notably at Sivagiri in Varkala and other major centers—to offer floral tributes, chant his hymns, and perform bhajans. Special discourses highlight his life’s work, emphasizing self-realization and the upliftment of marginalized communities.
Navratri and Durga Puja
In years when Navratri falls entirely or partly within Kanni, devotees observe nine nights of worship dedicated to the Divine Mother. Temples install clay or metal idols of Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati; recitations of the Devi Mahatmyam (Chandi Path) take place each evening. Many households host community feasts and cultural programs, including classical dance and music, underscoring the month’s spirit of feminine divine power and creative energy. Vijayadashami, the tenth day following Navratri, is celebrated with special Ayudha Pooja rituals—tools, musical instruments, and vehicles are ceremonially worshipped to invite blessings for the year ahead.
Fasting and Daily Rituals
Devotees undertake vratams (fasts) on select days:
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Navami and Durga Ashtami: Fast from dawn to dusk, breaking the fast with simple vegetarian meals.
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Kanni 5: Some followers of Sri Narayana Guru observe a day-long fast in his memory, coupled with meditation and reading of his works.
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Ekadashi and Pournami (when they fall in Kanni): Observed by Vaishnava and Shivaite communities, respectively, these lunar fasts promote self-discipline and spiritual introspection.
Morning routines typically begin with a purifying bath in cool spring water or temple tanks, followed by archana (offering of flowers), deepa aradhana (lamp offering), and the chanting of mantras specific to one’s chosen deity. In large temples, elaborate abhishekam (ritual bathing of the deity) ceremonies draw crowds, accompanied by traditional instrumental ensembles.
Regional Temple Festivals
Several village and town temples host annual utsavams (festivals) in Kanni. These may include horse processions (kuthira vela), chariot festivals (ratholsavam), and classical art performances. Foreign tourists interested in cultural immersion often find these occasions ideal for witnessing Kerala’s vibrant folk traditions, ornate costumes, and rhythmic percussion.
Artistic and Community Activities
Beyond formal worship, Kanni encourages creative expression. Sarada Pooja—worship of the goddess of learning—often sees schoolchildren and students placing their books and instruments before a statue of Saraswati, seeking blessings for academic success. Community halls host storytelling sessions, traditional Kerala mural painting workshops, and music concerts, all affirming the month’s theme of knowledge and renewal.
Special Days and Significance
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Kanni 1 (September Equinox Period): Marks Mula Nakshatra in many years, guiding the timing of agricultural and religious activities.
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Kanni 5: Sri Narayana Guru Samadhi—principal observance for social and spiritual reform.
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Mahanavami and Vijayadashami: Culmination of Navratri, emphasizing learning, valor and the divine feminine.
Final Thoughts
Kanni Masam is a tapestry of devotion, remembrance and community spirit. It interweaves the legacy of Sri Narayana Guru with age-old festivals like Navratri. Whether through fasting, temple ceremonies or the simple act of offering flowers at dawn, Malayali Hindus use this month to realign their lives with principles of equality, spiritual growth and respect for tradition. In its blend of solemnity and celebration, Kanni Masam remains a pillar of Kerala’s cultural and religious identity.