Karadaiyan Nombu is a highly significant festival for Tamil women, rooted deeply in devotion and faith. It is generally observed during the unique transition period where the Tamil month of Maasi ends and Panguni begins. This festival is dedicated to Goddess Gowri and it represents the power of a wife’s devotion, inspired by the legendary tale of Savitri, who saved her husband Satyavan from Yama, the God of Death. For married women, Karadaiyan Nombu is about praying for the long life and well-being of their husbands. Unmarried women also observe it to get a good life partner. So, let’s find out the date and time for this festival in 2026 and how you can celebrate it correctly. 

Karadaiyan Nombu 2026 Date And Time

• Date: Saturday, March 14, 2026

• Vratham Duration: Start: 06:17 am (Saturday)

• End: 01:08 am (Sunday, March 15)

Auspicious Puja Timings (Good Muhurthams):

Try to perform puja during these auspicious windows during the day for maximum effect:

• Uthi (Good): 07:47 AM – 09:18 AM

• Amirdha (Best): 10:48 AM – 12:18 PM

• Laabam (Gain): 01:48 PM – 03:19 PM

• Dhanam (Wealth): 03:19 PM – 04:49 PM

• Sugam (Good): 04:49 PM – 06:19 PM

Note: Avoid performing the main puja during Rahu Kalam or Yamagandam if possible

Also read: Varshitapa Arambha Rituals

Why Karadaiyan Nombu Is Important

The significance of Karadaiyan Nombu lies in the belief that heartfelt prayer can defeat even the harshest destiny. Just as Savitri won back her husband's life, women believe that observing this fast results in good health and a long life for their spouses. The central offering, the karadaiyan nombu adai, is a simple dish made of rice flour and black-eyed peas (karamani).  The fast is also known as Savitri Vratham. 

The Karadaiyan Nombu Story

The legend behind this festival comes from the Mahabharata. Savitri was a devoted wife to Satyavan, who was destined to die young. On the predicted day of his death, Savitri observed a strict fast. When Lord Yama (the God of Death) arrived to take Satyavan’s soul, Savitri followed him. She spoke to him, impressing him with her wisdom and devotion. She refused to turn back until Yama granted her a boon and she eventually tricked Yama into granting her husband’s life back. According to texts, this took place on the first day of Panguni month. Then, to thank the Gods, Savitri offered some wild rice and butter she had on hand. This is why women today offer the wild rice cake (Adai) and unmelted butter, praying, ‘As I offer this Adai and butter, let my husband never be separated from me.’

How To Do Karadaiyan Nombu Pooja

Here is a simple guide on how to do karadaiyan nombu pooja at home.

1. Morning Preparation:

• Wake up early on the puja day.

• Take a bath and wear traditional clothes. A Madisar or a yellow cotton saree is preferred.

• Decorate the entrance of your house with a Kolam (Rangoli).

2. Setting up the Deity:

• Clean your puja room.

• Place a photo or idol of Goddess Gowri (Parvati).

• Decorate the idol with flowers. A specific flower is often tied to the yellow thread (Saradu).

3. Preparing the Offering (Neivedyam):

• Prepare the karadaiyan nombu adai. There are usually two types: Sweet Adai (made with jaggery) and Savoury Adai (made with salt).

• The Adai must be served with fresh, unmelted butter.

• Keep betel leaves, betel nuts, and bananas ready on a plantain leaf.

4. The Puja Ritual:

• Place the yellow threads (Manjal Saradu) before the Goddess.

• Chant slokas or simple prayers dedicated to Goddess Gowri.

• Offer the Adai and butter to the Goddess.

• At the auspicious time (or the specific transition time), tie the yellow thread around your neck.

5. Breaking the Fast:

• After the puja is done and the thread is tied, you can break your fast by eating the Adai with butter.

• Distribute the Adai to family members and friends.

Also read: Sheetala Saptami 2026 Date

Karadaiyan Nombu 2026 is a beautiful reminder of the strength found in devotion.. By following these simple steps and observing the fast with a pure heart, you invite health and prosperity into your home. Whether you are in Tamil Nadu or anywhere else in the world, the essence of the festival remains the same: a heartfelt prayer for the ones you love. 

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