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Aaridradarshana

Aaridra Darshan or Aridradarshana is observed in the Tamil month of Margazhi (December – January). It is essentially a Shaivite festival and celebrates the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva, which is represented by the Nataraja form. Aridra signifies the golden red flame and Shiva performs the dance in the form of this red-flamed light.

It must be noted here that Arudhra, Ardra, Arudhara, Aridra, Arudara are the different spellings used in English language to mention the same festival. Aridra or Thiruvathirai is also the name of a birth star or nakshatra in Hindu astrology. The star is associated with Shiva.

Importance of Aridra Darshan

Aridra Darshan is one of the most auspicious days associated with Lord Shiva. It is dedicated to the cosmic dance of Shiva.

The cosmic dance of Lord Shiva represents five activities – Creation, Protection, Destruction, Embodiment and Release. In essence, it represents the continuous cycle of creation and destruction. This cosmic dance takes place in every particle and is the source of all energy. Aridra Darshan celebrates this ecstatic dance of Lord Shiva. Aridra Darshan is of great importance at the Chidambaram Nataraja Temple and marks the conclusion of Margazhi Brahmotsavam.

When is Aridra Darshan Observed?

It takes place on the full moon night (along with Aridra Birth Star) in the month of Margazhi and this is also the longest night in a year. The festival is mainly observed in the Tamil speaking world. The cosmic dance of Lord Shiva is enacted on the day.