Nariyal Purnima: Your Guide to Coconut Festival Magic

You know that sweet, nutty taste of fresh coconut water? That’s the magic of Nariyal Purnima, the full-moon day when coconuts shine as festival gold. At Chennai School of Music & Arts, we’ve made this celebration a highlight of our cultural calendar—and it’s easy to join in. Just grab a few coconuts, a few hours, and your favorite tunes. You’ll want to know how to pick the perfect ones, when to serve them, and why they’re so special to us.

Why Nariyal Purnima Matters to Us

For us, it’s not just about the coconut—it’s about the vibe. Our students kick off the festival with a special ragam (melody) called 'Nariyal Purnima Ragam,' played on the veena. Then, we serve coconut rice with a side of fresh mango chutney. Last year, our little ones even made coconut husk crafts. You don’t need fancy tools—just a sharp knife and a bowl. We’ve found that coconuts with green husks and plump eyes (the 'eyes' are the three spots on the nut) hold the best water. And don’t skip the coconut milk drizzle—it’s our secret touch!

Simple Tips for Your Own Celebration

We’ve packed our favorite hacks into a quick checklist. First, soak your coconuts overnight. It makes them easier to crack and the water creamier. Next, mix a pinch of curry leaves and jaggery into the water for a sweet-tangy twist. For the main event, try our go-to recipe: coconut rice with roasted cashews. It takes 30 minutes, and the whole house smells like a Tamil Nadu kitchen. We’ve also noticed that pairing it with a light, floral song (try 'Kannamma' by Lalgudi Jayaraman) makes it feel extra special. And if you’re short on time, just serve coconuts with a spoonful of honey. You’ll be amazed at how much it elevates the flavor. Don’t forget to share your moments! We’ve seen families post videos of their Nariyal Purnima feasts on Instagram, tagging #NariyalPurnimaChennai. Last month, one of our alumnae, Priya, shared how she made coconut laddoos for her wedding. It’s become a tradition now. So whether you’re a seasoned cook or a weeknight warrior, this festival fits your rhythm. We’ve got a free printable guide on our website—just pop in your email. You’ll get our top tips and a sample menu. It’s our way of saying, ‘Let’s celebrate together.’