- By Kashish Rai
- Tue, 01 Jul 2025 05:53 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Aani Uthiram 2025 is a sacred day dedicated to Lord Nataraja, a form of Lord Shiva, and is observed during the Uthra star in the Tamil month of Aani. Also known as Aani Thirumanjanam, it involves special rituals like abhishekam and archana, symbolising a divine holy bath. The festival is marked with deep devotion across Nataraja temples, especially at the Chidambaram Temple, where a grand procession draws thousands of worshippers. Devotees gather in large numbers to witness this spiritually uplifting event, offering prayers and soaking in the powerful energy of Lord Nataraja’s cosmic dance and divine presence. This year, Aani Uthiram falls on Wednesday, 2 July.
Check out all the significant details regarding the date, Uthiram Nakshatram timings, significance and rituals of Aani Thirumanjam below:
Aani Uthiram 2025: Date And Uthiram Nakshatram Timings
- Aani Uthiram 2025 Date: 2nd July 2025, Wednesday
- Uthiram Nakshatram Begins: 12:44 PM, 1st July 2025
- Uthiram Nakshatram Ends: 2:21 PM, 2nd July 2025
Aani Uthiram 2025: Significance
Aani Uthiram is a deeply sacred day for devotees of Lord Nataraja, marking the moment when Lord Shiva is believed to have appeared before the saint Manikkavachakar beneath a Kurundai tree to offer divine wisdom. This powerful encounter makes the day spiritually significant. Saint Manikkavachakar, the revered author of Thiruvachakam, composed hymns filled with devotion and insight, and his connection to this occasion adds further meaning for worshippers.
Lord Nataraja symbolises five cosmic functions: creation, protection, destruction, concealment and salvation. Each part of his divine dance reflects these aspects – his drum (udukkai) denotes creation, the raised right hand signals protection, the fire in his left hand represents destruction, his firmly planted foot stands for concealment, and his lifted leg symbolises liberation. This symbolism is central to his worship, especially on days like Aani Uthiram.
Six special Abhishekams are performed annually for Lord Nataraja, aligning with the six seasons of the Tamil calendar. These seasons reflect one full day for celestial beings, with each season linked to a divine hour. Among these, the Ani Thirumanjanam held during the Uthiram star in the Tamil month of Aani is especially important. Performed during the sacred Pradosham time, it’s seen as the most powerful moment to seek Lord Nataraja’s blessings.
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Aani Uthiram celebrates Lord Nataraja’s divine dance, symbolising cosmic balance and creation. Devotees honour Him with rituals and devotion, especially at Chidambaram, embracing His sacred energy and spiritual presence. (Image Source: Instagram)
Aani Uthiram 2025: Rituals
On Aani Uthiram, devotees honour Lord Nataraja with heartfelt rituals that blend deep devotion and rich tradition. The highlight of the day is the Thirumanjanam or sacred bathing ceremony, where the deity is bathed with a mix of holy substances such as milk, honey, ghee, sandalwood paste, and turmeric. This ritual, known for its spiritual significance, is carried out with great care, as priests chant powerful Vedic mantras that are believed to purify both the space and the soul.
Following the Abhishekam, elaborate archanas (offerings and praises) are performed to invoke Lord Shiva’s blessings. Devotees gather in large numbers, especially at Chidambaram’s famous Nataraja Temple, to witness these deeply moving rituals. The atmosphere becomes vibrant with the sounds of traditional instruments, temple bells, and devotional songs. The deity, adorned with flowers and sacred ornaments, is later taken in a grand procession, allowing all devotees a close glimpse of the Lord.
Many also observe fasting or engage in personal prayers and reading of the Thiruvachakam, the sacred hymns written by Saint Manikkavachakar. Lighting lamps, offering fresh flowers, and meditating on the cosmic dance of Lord Nataraja are all part of how devotees celebrate this sacred day, seeking inner transformation and divine grace.
(Disclaimer: This content includes advice providing generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified spiritual or astrological opinion. Always consult a specialist for more information before adopting any measures.)