Significance of the tamil month of margazhi

The holy star Mrigaseersha, combined with the Pournami thithi, gives birth to the great Margazhi month.

- Hema Rajaraman

Margasheersha is named after the Mrigshira Nakshatra - the time when the full moon appears closest to the Orion constellation.

In Bhagvadgeeta, Sri Krishna says: “maasanaam margazhi sheershoahamritunaam kusumakarah “Among the months, I am Margasheersha!” Lord Krishna, Himself steers the spiritual seeker during Margazhi, it is indeed a gift from the Heavens.

In the Deva Lokha, one Human year is equal to one day. The six months from Aadi (mid July to mid August) to Margazhi corresponding to the southern solstice make up the night of the Gods; the six other months make up the day of the Gods. So, the beautiful month of Margazhi is the dawn, the Brahma muhurtham, when the celestial beings wake up for the day. With the onset of Margasheersha, the weather cools down. According to Ayurveda, the bodily fire recedes within and becomes strong, facilitating digestion and assimilation. Therefore, the body is now perfect for sadhana.

Margasheersha also marks the end of Dakshiyana - the apparent movement of the Sun towards the south and therefore, is the last opportunity to pursuing efforts towards our goals.

It is believed, that in this period, the ozone layer is much closer to the earth and breathing early morning cool, unpolluted air is conducive for maintaining mental and physical stability This is a time when people wake up at the Brahmamuhurtham (between 3am and 4 am) and engage themselves in spiritual sadhana.