The southern state of Tamil Nadu is known to observe the Arudra Darshan festival with great fervour. The festival devoted to the diety Lord Shiva, takes place specifically on Arudra or Thiruvaathirai nakshatram day during the auspicious month of Maargazhi. Coincidentally, Arudra nakshatram happens to fall on full moon day or Pournami during Maargazhi month, thus adding greater significance to this festival.
Ritual celebrations start off with worship by chanting of the holy Vedas to Nataraj who is said to be another avatar of Lord Shiva. Devotees throng together as part of birthday celebration of Nataraja whereas in other parts of the country the birthday of Lord Shiva is on Mahashivratri day.
Arudra Darshan, Ardhra Dharshanam
