Kathiri Veyil is the period when the Sun or Surya passes through the
star Krittika. The period is considered to be the peak summer season. In 2018,
Kathiri Veyil in the Tamil Calendar started at 11.05 a.m., May 4, 2018
and will continue until May 28, 2018. As its the peak summer season the period
is considered inauspicious and therefore some refer to it as Agni Nakshathra
dosha.
The passing of the sun through 3rd and 4th quarter of Bharani Nakshatra
and the four quarters of Krittika and the first quarter of Rohini Star is the
period of Agni Nakshatram.
Popular superstitions for this 21 day dosha (inauspicious period)
are; journeys made through this time will be unsuccessful, money given
will not be returned and disease/illness will not be easily cured.
Some believe it better to avoid the observance of auspicious events
during this period. In addition, things to be avoided are the construction of;
new ponds or wells. The making of new gardens, cultivation of fields and the planting
of trees, bushes and saplings.
When the peak of the summer season, better known as kathiri veyil or
agni nakshatram commenced at 11.05 a.m. 4th May, 2018. a thara pathiram
(vessel) filled with rose water was set on top of the linga at Temples dedicated
to Lord Siva to reduce the intensity of the sun rays and heat in the sanctum
sanctorums.
The Lingam with thara parthiram in the below photos are that of the
Temple of Lord Thondareeswarar at Tiruvannamalai.
