Tiruvatira: 1 definition
Introduction:
Tiruvatira means something in the history of ancient India. If you want to know the exact meaning, history, etymology or English translation of this term then check out the descriptions on this page. Add your comment or reference to a book if you want to contribute to this summary article.
India history and geography
Source: Project Gutenberg: Castes and Tribes of Southern India, Volume 1Tiruvatira (or Ardra star) refers to one of the festivals of the Nambutiris.—In the month of Dhanu. This is a day of universal festivity and rejoicing. For seven days previous to it, all the members of the house bathe in the early morning, and worship Siva. This bathing is generally called tutichchukuli or shivering bath, as the mornings are usually cold and intensely dewy. On the day previous to Tiruvatira, ettangnati, or eight articles of food purchased in the bazar, are partaken of. Such a repast is never indulged in on any other day. The Tiruvatira day is spent in the adoration of Siva, and the votaries take only a single meal (orikkal). Night vigils are kept both by the wife and husband seated before a lighted fire, which represents the sakshi (witness) of Karmas and contracts. (Hence the common term agnisakshi.) They then chew a bundle of betel leaves, not less than a hundred in number. This is called kettuvettila tinnuka. As the chewing of betel is taboo except in the married state, this function is believed to attest and seal their irrefragable mutual fidelity.
The history of India traces the identification of countries, villages, towns and other regions of India, as well as mythology, zoology, royal dynasties, rulers, tribes, local festivities and traditions and regional languages. Ancient India enjoyed religious freedom and encourages the path of Dharma, a concept common to Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism.
See also (Relevant definitions)
Starts with: Tiru-atiraikali, Tiru-atirainacciyar, Tiruvatirai, Tiruvatirajyam.
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Search found 2 books and stories containing Tiruvatira; (plurals include: Tiruvatiras). You can also click to the full overview containing English textual excerpts. Below are direct links for the most relevant articles:
Sanskrit sources of Kerala history (by Suma Parappattoli)
18. Other Campus bearing on Kerala history < [Chapter 5 - Sanskrit Dramas and Campus bearing on Kerala History]
12. The Keralodayam by Dr. K.N. Ezhuthachan < [Chapter 3 - Historical Details from Mahakavyas]
Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story) (by Somadeva)
Part 3 - Southern India < [Appendix 8.2 - The Romance of Betel-Chewing]