Coimbatore farmers observe traditional paddy sowing rituals

Farmers marked the onset of farming season with traditional paddy sowing rituals over the weekend, even as heavy monsoon showers continue in various parts of southern India.

Farmers in traditional attire ploughed through their fields with the help of cows and bullocks, and followed it up with a planting of seeds and saplings in the harvested area.

The sowing festival is generally observed in July after the south west monsoon arrives in Tamil Nadu.

Farmers said paddy cultivation across the state begins only after the commencement of the festival.

"It is only after this auspicious day that the farmers begin their farming activities," said Kamalavalli, a farmer.

The festival is said to be over 2000 years old. Legend has it that Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi helped the Devendra Kulam community plough their fields and grow their crops to feed the people.