Aadi Pooram (ஆடி பூரம்)
Birthday of Goddess Andal — Pooram Nakshatra in Aadi
About Aadi Pooram
Aadi Pooram celebrates the birth of Goddess Andal (Kothai), the only female Alvaar saint, born under the Pooram (Purva Phalguni) Nakshatra in the Tamil month of Aadi (July–August). Andal composed the Thiruppavai and Nachiyar Thirumozhi — devotional hymns to Lord Vishnu.
Significance
Andal is revered as an avatar of Goddess Bhudevi (Earth goddess) and the divine consort of Lord Vishnu. Her Thiruppavai — 30 verses sung during Margazhi — is among the most beloved Tamil devotional poetry. Aadi Pooram celebrates her divine birth and her lifelong devotion to Vishnu.
How the Date is Calculated
Aadi Pooram falls when the Pooram (Purva Phalguni) Nakshatra occurs in the Tamil month of Aadi (mid-July to mid-August). The date varies year to year depending on the lunar calendar.
How It is Celebrated
- Aadi Pooram — grand celebrations at Srivilliputhur Andal Temple
- Special abhishekam and alankaram of Andal
- Recitation of Thiruppavai and Nachiyar Thirumozhi
- Procession of Andal in palanquin through temple streets
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Goddess Andal?
Andal (Kothai) is the only female among the 12 Alvaar saints — Tamil Vaishnava poet-saints who composed devotional hymns to Lord Vishnu. She is believed to be an incarnation of Bhudevi (Earth goddess) and was born in Srivilliputhur in the 8th century CE. Her most famous work, the Thiruppavai, is sung every day during the Tamil month of Margazhi.
What is special about Srivilliputhur on Aadi Pooram?
Srivilliputhur Andal Temple — the birthplace of Andal — celebrates Aadi Pooram with grand processions, special abhishekam, and recitation of her hymns. Thousands of devotees gather for the festival, which is the biggest annual celebration at this temple.
When is Aadi Pooram 2026?
Aadi Pooram falls when Pooram Nakshatra occurs in Aadi month. See the exact 2026 date in the festival calendar above.