Karadaiyan Nombu Pooja is an age-old tradition in Tamil Nadu, India, believed to bestow prosperity. Grandmothers like mine (2) enthusiastically prepare rice balls (Karadai) and jasmine flower garlands (Thirumangalyam), making it a heartwarming experience (1).
The ritual involves preparing Karadai and Thirumangalyam, bathing and dressing Goddess Lakshmi, performing the pooja with fruits, betel leaves, etc., and distributing Prasadam – blessed rice balls. The science behind this tradition suggests our ancestors understood the importance of community gatherings and sharing food for overall well-being (4).
Food scholar Dr. Alan Levinovitz explains, "Food is not just essential for survival but also plays a significant role in social bonding" (4). This pooja goes beyond being a tradition; it’s a time to come together as a family and cherish bonds (5). As we light the lamp and offer prayers, may the blessings of Karadaiyan Nombu Pooja illuminate our lives with love, joy, and prosperity.
References:
- "Karadaiyan Nombu – The Traditional Way," The Hindu, 2020.
- Personal Experience, Author’s Grandmother, 1995.
- "Karadaiyan Nombu Pooja Vidhanam," Tamilnadu Temple Department, 2021.
- Dr. Alan Levinovitz, "The Glorious Meat Eater: A Surprising Story of Religion, Food, and Being Human." Simon & Schuster, 2019.
- Author’s Reflection, 2022.
