Aadi Masam or Aadi is the fourth month in Tamil Calendar and is termed inauspicious by many as the Dakshinayana Punyakalam begins in this month. In 2020, the Aadi Masam begins on July 16 and ends on August 15.

The word Aadi is originated from the Sanskrit word “Aashadi”. This month is considered as the most auspicious month for worshiping gods and goddesses. So this month is full of temple festivals. It is believed that goddess Pachai Amman known as goddess of marriage establishes peace and harmony in the world. Aadi karthigai, Aadi pooram, Aadi peruku, Aadi amavasai are some important festivals of Aadi month. Aadi karthigai is a festival dedicated to Lord Muruga. Special pujas are performed to please Lord Muruga. Kavadis are also offered to Lord Muruga. Aadi pooram is celebrated on the day of puram nakshatram. It is also celebrated as Andal Jeyanthi, birthday of Andal ammal.

This festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple, Srivilliputtur Andal Temple, Melmaruvathur Aadhiparashakthi Temple. Aadi peruku is very important festival in Tamilnadu which is celebrated in eighteenth day of Aadi month. This festival is celebrated by the women in Cauvery delta region to honour nature. They exchange delicious fried rice. It marks the beginning of cultivation on the banks of Cauvery river. This festival is celebrated with extreme importance in Tamilnadu especially in Sri Ranganadhaswamy Temple, Srirangam. Aadi Amavasai is a No Moon day in Aadi month and this day is dedicated to forefathers and ancestors. Special pujas are offered to them by Tamil people.

In spite of all these festivals, Aadi is considered as inauspicious month for good things like marriages, shifting new houses and buying new clothes.