Thursday, August 27, 2026
Avani Avittam (also called Upakarma) is a sacred annual ritual observed primarily by Tamil and other South Indian Brahmin communities. Celebrated during the Tamil month of Avani (August-September) on the day of the Avittam (Shravana) star, it marks the renewal of one's commitment to Vedic learning and spiritual discipline. On this day, men perform special prayers, express repentance for past mistakes, and ceremonially change their sacred thread (poonool/yajnopavita), symbolizing purification and a fresh spiritual beginning.
Thursday, August 27, 2026
Avani Avittam, also known as Upakarma, is an important sacred thread changing ceremony observed by Brahmin communities (Yajurveda, Rigveda, and Samaveda followers) across India, especially in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra. This auspicious Vedic ritual marks the renewal of spiritual learning, purification, and recommitment to dharma.
In 2026, Avani Avittam will be celebrated in the Tamil month of Avani (August–September) on the day of Avittam (Shravana) Nakshatra with Gayatri Japam performed the next day.
If you are looking for Avani Avittam dates, significance, pooja procedure, mantras, or how to change the poonal (sacred thread), this complete guide will help you.
Avani Avittam is a Vedic Upakarma ceremony where eligible men:
The day symbolizes spiritual rebirth, renewal, and purification of karma.
Always check your local Panchangam or temple calendar for exact muhurtham timings.
Avani Avittam represents:
It is believed that changing the sacred thread removes accumulated negative karma and grants mental clarity and spiritual progress.
Here’s the traditional Upakarma procedure followed at home or temples:
Take an early bath in a river/temple tank/home with prayers.
Take a vow stating intention to perform Upakarma.
Recite mantras acknowledging time, place, and purpose.
Offer water to sages:
Remove old poonal and wear a new one with mantras.
Recite Vedas to honor knowledge.
Chant Gayatri Mantra 108 or 1008 times for purification.
Om Bhur Bhuvah Swaha
Tat Savitur Varenyam
Bhargo Devasya Dheemahi
Dhiyo Yo Nah Prachodayat
Chanting improves:
Traditionally observed by:
Primarily performed by men who have undergone Upanayanam (thread ceremony).
Prepare these essentials:
Performing Avani Avittam regularly is believed to:
Remove past karmic impurities
Increase focus and discipline
Strengthen devotion
Bring family prosperity
Enhance Vedic knowledge
Promote positive energy
To symbolize spiritual renewal and removal of sins.
Yes. Many perform it at home with guidance or attend temples.
Yes, it is an important part of the Upakarma ritual.
Consult a priest for a suitable alternative day (pariharam).
Avani Avittam is more than a ritual — it is a spiritual reset that reconnects us to Vedic tradition, discipline, and divine consciousness. Observing Upakarma with devotion ensures both inner peace and outer prosperity.
Make this Avani Avittam meaningful by performing the rituals with sincerity and chanting Gayatri Japam wholeheartedly.
