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Avani Avittam or Upakramam or Avani
Attam is beautifully celebrated religious observations by the Brahmins
in south india. Especially in Tamil Nadu and Kerala, the festival is
rigorously being followed in some parts of Orissa and Maharashtra also.
Such festivity is being celebrated on the Shravan Purnima, which is
famous as Raksha Bandhan in northern India. In northern sides, sisters
tie an amulet called Rakhi on the wrist of their brothers. The thread is
entwined with blessings and good wishes of sister for their dearly
brother. In exchange brothers vow to stand by her during thick and thin
of life.
Rituals of Avani Avittam/ Upakramam
Upakramam signifies to the beginning of studying the Veda, which is
performed during the period of Avani to Tai. The period corresponds from
mid-August to mid- January as per the english calendar. The Upakramam
ceremony of Brahmins follow with the recitation of poem, which is called
'prayashchita'. Early in morning, Brahmins take out their Mahasankalpam
or thread for penance of their all wrong doing which they have done in
past one year. After that they take a holy bath and wear a new thread,
called as Janeyu or Yajnopavit.
Importance of Avani Avittam/ Upakramam
Avani Avittam is marked as one of the most auspicious event for
Brahmins. The day is dotted as an important one for Yajurvedis also as
they started reading Yajur Veda, which they remain continuing for next 6
months. It is believed that on Avani Avittam, Lord Vishnu has
reincarnation itself into Lord Hayagriya, which is the symbol of wealth
and knowledge. On this day, God Vishnu who is worshiped as the high
deity power actually restored the Vedas to Brahma.
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