Puthandu, also known as Tamil New Year, will be celebrated on April 14, 2026. This festival marks the beginning of the Tamil calendar and symbolizes fresh starts and gratitude. The Kanni ritual, meaning 'auspicious sight', is a significant tradition where families prepare a special arrangement the night before, ensuring it is the first thing seen upon waking. The Sankranti moment for Puthandu 2026 is at 9:39 AM, with morning puja considered auspicious between 6:00 AM and 10:00 AM. Preparations include cleaning homes and decorating them with mango leaf torans and intricate kolam designs. Devotees also visit temples for special prayers, seeking blessings for a prosperous year. A ceremonial reading of the Panchangam, the Hindu almanac, outlines astrological predictions for the year. The festive feast, served on banana leaves, includes Mango Pachadi, which represents the various emotions of life, along with other traditional dishes. Younger family members seek blessings from elders, reinforcing family bonds and gratitude.