Ardra, also known as Arudhara and Thiruvathira, is one among
the 27 nakshatras or birth stars and numerous incidents associated with Shiva
happened on this Nakshatra day.
The most important Thiruvathira Nakshatra is in the month of
Margazhi (December – January) in Tamil Calendar or Dhanu Masam in Malayalam
Calendar. The Arudhara Darshan takes place on the day. It is believed that
Shiva performed the Nataraja dance on this day.
Another belief is that Shiva and Shakti merges on this day.
Women of certain communities observe a fast on the
Thiruvathira day in Dhanu month for the peace and prosperity of the family.
Another belief is that Devas and Goddess Rati performed vrat
and other austerities on Thiruvathira day to bring back Kamdev to life, who was burned down by Shiva.
Two festival associated with Ardra is Arudara Darshan and Thiruvathira in Dhanu month
Two festival associated with Ardra is Arudara Darshan and Thiruvathira in Dhanu month