Tamil Nadu Culture Diary!

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Today we will explore one of the oldest civilizations to ever exist, the state of Tamil Nadu. And, it is believed to be 2000 years old and is part of Dravidian family. Let us talk about the people, food, festivals and much more about Tamil Nadu.

Food of Tamil Nadu

Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian palette are satisfied with the food in the state. Rice is a staple diet and lentils, grains and vegetables are also main ingredients in Tamil Cuisine. Sambhar and Coconut Chutney are served with almost everything. For non-vegetarians, fish, turtle, mutton and venison are the apt choices. The tradition of eating on Banana Leaf is also followed till date by many people.

Music & Dance of Tamil Nadu

Carnatic Music is enjoyed by people of the state and Bharatnatyam is the official dance of the state. The dance moves are complicated involving subtle movements.

Festivals of Tamil Nadu

Pongal is the harvest festival celebrated to worship Sun God & is celebrated on 13th January each year. People prepare a dish named Pongal on this day and first offering is given to Sun God.

Puthandu is the Tamil Nadu New Year and women make beautiful Kolams at the entrance of their houses.

Natyanjali Dance Festival is celebrated as day where dancers offer their Dance as tribute to the one and only Lord Nataraja. This festival is a day best celebrated in the Nataraja Temple, Chidambaram in Tamil Nadu. It is celebrated around Mahashivratri.

Dress of Tamil Nadu

The traditional dress for men is Lungi (Dhoti) with a angvastram and a shirt. Women wear Sari and blouse. The Kanchipuram saris are loved for their color and texture by people all over India.

Special Mention

People prepare Rangoli outside their homes every morning and it is believed to separate the outer and inner world.

I had another fun trip exploring the state of Tamil Nadu, and the architecture, the people and food all are lovely. You can read my travelling series on backpacking through Tamil Nadu here.

Have you visited Tamil Nadu and what did you love most about it? Do share your thoughts with us in the comment section.

This post is written as part of Indian Culture Diary for #AtoZChallenge. Do read more post in the series to learn about the rich Indian Culture.