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Ardra – Thiruvathira Nakshatra And Shiva

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 Arudra 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 Arudra Darshan and Thiruvathira in Dhanu month