wow. that is very informative.

Thai (the month thai in tamil calendar) first is celebrated after the harvest is considered as the day that brings new life to the farmers. but, Chiththirai is the first month and it starts on April 14. Agni natchchathram (hot sunny period) starts in Panguni (Second week of march), but that is not the new year. Panguni is celebrated as the month of Goddes Mother, Maari / Kaali ... it is festive season... but, it is not new year. Chithirai (april 14th to May 14th) is considered as "not so good period" for anything. but still that is the first month of the new year.