The Andal Thiruppavai recital and Vishnu Puja are important religious practices during the auspicious Margazhi Month (mid-December to mid-January), particularly in the Tamil tradition. Margazhi is a sacred month in the Hindu calendar, celebrated with great devotion, especially by followers of Lord Vishnu. It is a time for intense spiritual practice, prayer, and devotion.

Andal Thiruppavai is a collection of 30 devotional hymns composed by Andal, one of the Twelve Alvars (saint-poets) of Tamil Nadu, who is revered as an incarnation of Bhudevi, the Earth goddess, and a beloved devotee of Lord Vishnu. The hymns express her deep love and surrender to Lord Vishnu, invoking the goddess’s blessings for peace, prosperity, and spiritual awakening. Devotees recite these verses in the early morning hours during Margazhi as part of the traditional “Pavai Nonbu” (a religious observance). The recital of the Thiruppavai is considered a way to purify the mind and soul, as it is believed to bring the devotee closer to Lord Vishnu.

In addition to the Thiruppavai recital, Vishnu Puja is performed in homes and temples throughout Margazhi. The ritual begins with the worship of Lord Vishnu’s idol or image, adorned with flowers, especially tulsi (holy basil), which is sacred to Vishnu. Offerings such as fruits, sweets, incense, and ghee lamps are made. The Vishnu Sahasranama, a thousand names of Lord Vishnu, is often chanted during the puja, invoking the divine presence of the Lord for blessings of peace, prosperity, and spiritual enlightenment.

The Margazhi month and the Thiruppavai recital are integral to the Vaishnavite tradition and create an atmosphere of devotion and sanctity, bringing divine blessings to all practitioners.