Panguni Utthiram 2026

Panguni Uttiram: The Festival of Divine Weddings

Panguni Uttiram is observed on Phalguna Pournami when the moon is in Uttara Phalguni (Uttara) nakshatra. In the Tamil calendar Phalguna is called Panguni and Uttara is called Uttiram, hence the name. It is mainly celebrated in Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

Background

Tamil tradition holds that several divine weddings took place on this day, including the marriage of Shiva and Parvati and of Lord Subrahmanya (Murugan) with Devasena. The day is also celebrated as the avatara day of Lord Ayyappa of Sabarimala. Some traditions also regard Phalguna Pournami as the day Goddess Mahalakshmi appeared. For these reasons the day is considered auspicious for married life and for those seeking marriage.

For Telugu Devotees

For most Telugu families, Phalguna Pournami means Holi and Kama Dahanam. However, Ayyappa devotees, Subrahmanya devotees and Tamil families living in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana observe Panguni Uttiram with devotion. Visiting a Shiva, Subrahmanya or Ayyappa temple on this day is considered auspicious.

How to Observe

• Bathe early and decorate images of Shiva-Parvati and Lord Subrahmanya with flowers.
• Light a lamp and chant the Subrahmanya Ashtottaram or the Shiva Panchakshari.
• Many devotees fast during the day and eat after the evening puja.
• Offer payasam, pulihora and fruits as naivedyam.
• Attend the kalyanotsavam held in temples; couples often visit the temple together.

Significance

Panguni Uttiram celebrates the union of Shiva and Shakti and a married life built on love and commitment. Devotees believe that sincere worship on this day helps those seeking marriage and blesses couples with harmony.

May this Panguni Uttiram bring the grace of divine union and prosperity to every home.