Full Moon and No Moon Day
Kalpathi Ratholsavam - November 14
Thula Masam: The Third Month of the Kerala Hindu Calendar
Meaning of Thula Masam
Thula Masam corresponds roughly to the period between mid-October and mid-November in the Gregorian calendar. The name “Thula” is derived from the Sanskrit word for balance, symbolizing the transition from the intense heat of summer to the milder, more temperate weather of autumn. In Kerala, this month is celebrated with a series of religious observances, festivals, and community gatherings that reflect its deep cultural and spiritual significance.
Importance in Kerala Hindu Culture
Thula Masam holds a special place in Kerala’s religious life. It marks a time when nature itself seems to pause in perfect equilibrium—harvested fields lie fallow, cool breezes blow after months of heat, and rain-worn trees stand adorned with golden leaves. This sense of balance is mirrored in the rituals performed and the festivals observed. Devotees believe that virtuous acts and observances during Thula Masam yield abundant spiritual merit, setting a harmonious tone for the months ahead.
Major Festivals Observed In Thula Masam
Deepavali
Often celebrated on the new moon day (Amavasya) of Thula Masam, Deepavali, the festival of lights, is one of the most widely observed events. In Kerala, homes are cleaned and decorated with traditional oil lamps (nilavilakku), and intricate floral designs (pookalam) adorn the courtyards. Families gather to perform Lakshmi puja, invoking the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and share sweets and savories in festive feasts.
Skanda Sashti Soorasamharam
Observed on the sixth day of the waxing moon (Shukla Paksha), Skanda Sashti commemorates Lord Murugan’s battle against the demon Soorapadman. Known locally as Soora Maharam, this festival is marked by vibrant processions and dramatic reenactments of the battle, often held at Murugan temples such as those at Pazhavangadi and Chakkulathukavu. Devotees observe a six-day fast leading up to the final battle, culminating in special pujas and the distribution of prasadam.
Mannarasala Ayilyam
One of Kerala’s most unique serpent worship festivals, Ayilyam at Mannarasala temple falls in Thula Masam during the Ayilyam (Aslesha) star of the waxing moon. Thousands of devotees, especially women seeking blessings for fertility and family welfare, throng the sacred grove of serpent deities. Rituals include the offering of milk to snake idols, recitation of serpent mantras, and traditional dances invoking the protective power of Nagaraja.
Kalpathi Ratholsavam
Held in the quaint village of Kalpathi near Palakkad, this spectacular chariot festival spans over eight days. The highlight is the grand procession of massive temple chariots (rathas), each carved from rosewood and exquisitely decorated. The festival honors Lord Krishna and draws pilgrims from across the state. Daily rituals include coconut-breaking ceremonies, elephant processions, and classical music concerts in the temple precincts.
Fasting and Vratams
Thula Masam is a propitious time for various vrata observances. Besides the six-day Skanda Sashti fast, devotees undertake simple fasts on Thursdays to honor Guru (Jupiter) and on Fridays for Lakshmi. Some observe the Ekadashi fast on the eleventh lunar day, dedicating their penance to Lord Vishnu. Fasting practices range from consuming only rice and fruit to full abstention from grains, depending on one’s family tradition and physical capability.
Rituals and Temple Traditions
Temples across Kerala adopt special routines during Thula Masam. Daily early-morning abhishekam (ritual bathing of the deity), elaborate alankarams (decorations), and evening deepa aradhana (lamp offerings) intensify in grandeur. It is common to see devotees making early pilgrimages to hill-top shrines and serpent groves before sunrise, believing that the first darshan in Thula Masam yields amplified blessings.
Special Days and Significance
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Pradosha Vratam: Falling twice in the month, this observance honors Lord Shiva. Devotees visit Shiva temples at twilight, perform special puja, and chant the “Om Namah Shivaya” mantra for relief from sins.
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Aippasi Punarvasu: During the Punarvasu star, worship of ancestral spirits and Navagrahas (nine planets) is common, seeking protection and dispelling malefic influences.
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Lakshmi Panchami: Celebrated on the fifth day of the waxing moon, this day is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, inviting wealth and harmony into homes through elaborate prayers and distribution of sesame sweets.
Cultural and Social Aspects
Beyond temple precincts, Thula Masam infuses village life with festivity. Traditional art forms such as Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, and Koodiyattam see special performances depicting episodes from the epics. Community feasts (annadanam) are organized by temples and social clubs, reinforcing bonds through shared meals. The cooler weather also heralds the preparation of certain winter crops, and market days bustle with fresh produce, aromatic spices, and handloom textiles.
Final Thoughts
Thula Masam stands as a testament to Kerala’s vibrant tapestry of faith and culture. Through its blend of solemn fasts, joyous festivals, and time-honored rituals, this month embodies the Kerala Hindu community’s reverence for cosmic balance and earthly bounty. As lamps glow in every home and temple chariots rumble along village streets, Thula Masam invites all to partake in its harmonious celebrations and to carry its spirit of balance into the seasons that follow.