Karthigai Deepam is a significant Hindu festival primarily observed by Tamil Hindus. While it shares similarities with Diwali, it possesses its own distinct importance, focusing on the veneration of Lord Shiva and Lord Murugan. The date of Karthigai Deepam is determined according to the Tamil Solar Calendar.

This festival occurs in the month of Karthikai, coinciding with the Karthigai Nakshatra during the night. It is also the period when Karthigai Nakshatra aligns with Pournami, the full moon day of Karthikai, as noted by Drikpanchang.com.

Celebrations for Karthigai Deepam 2024 

The most renowned celebrations of Karthigai Deepam take place at the Thiruvannamalai Arunachaleshwara Swamy temple, commonly referred to as Karthikai Brahmotsavam.

The festivities at the Thiruvannamalai temple last for ten days, commencing with Dwajarohanam on the day when Nakshatra Uthiraadam is present at sunrise. Typically, Nakshatra Uthiraadam is observed ten days prior to the main Karthigai Deepam celebration.

Karthigai Deepam 2024 date and timings

In 2024, Karthigai Deepam is scheduled for Friday, December 13, 2024, according to Drikpanchang.com:

◉ Karthigai Nakshathram begins at 07:50 am on December 13, 2024

◉ Karthigai Nakshathram concludes at 05:48 am on December 14, 2024

It is important to distinguish Karthigai Deepam from Bharani Deepam, as outlined by Drikpanchang.com, which is the preliminary ritual associated with Karthigai Deepam. Bharani Deepam is performed before sunrise at 4 am, occurring either the day before or on the same day as Karthigai Deepam. This ritual involves lighting a flame within the temple grounds when Bharani Nakshatra is in effect.

In most years, Bharani Deepam is ignited at 4 am on the same day as Karthigai Deepam, according to Drikpanchang.com. Karthigai Deepam is then lit at 6 pm after sunset, using the flame derived from Bharani Deepam. In the evening, this flame is transported to the summit of the hill to illuminate the Karthigai Maha Deepam.

Karthigai Deepam 2024 rituals and legends

According to Astroera.in, the origins of Karthigai Deepam can be traced back to ancient mythology. One well-known legend recounts how Lord Shiva manifested as an infinite flame, challenging the deities Vishnu and Brahma to discover its beginning or end. Their inability to do so highlighted the limitless nature of Shiva’s power. This flame has since become a representation of divine illumination, celebrated during Karthigai Deepam.

Another narrative connects Karthigai Deepam to Lord Murugan, the Hindu deity of war and wisdom, who was born under the Krittika star (Pleiades). Consequently, many devotees honor Lord Murugan during Karthigai Deepam, associating the festival with strength and enlightenment.

Karthigai Deepam is predominantly celebrated in Tamil Nadu, although a similar festival known as Thrikkarthika is observed in Kerala. Shared traditions include lighting lamps and preparing special dishes. The primary custom of Karthigai Deepam involves lighting oil lamps, referred to as 'deepams'. These lamps are placed throughout homes, on balconies, and in temples to symbolize the dispelling of darkness and negativity.

Numerous devotees visit temples, particularly the Arunachaleswarar Temple in Thiruvannamalai, where the Mahadeepam (great lamp) is lit atop the hill. This sacred flame signifies Lord Shiva, attracting people from surrounding areas who gather to witness the light as a form of blessing. Devotees offer prayers to both Lord Shiva and Lord Murugan, seeking blessings, protection, and peace. Fresh flowers, fruits, and incense are utilized in home pujas, and special food, known as prasadam, is prepared as an offering.

On this day, numerous individuals partake in a modest fast and prepare traditional confections such as puffed rice combined with jaggery, along with various other dishes, which are then shared with family and neighbors as part of the festivities. Additionally, a vibrant kolam, or floor design, is created at the entrances of homes. Crafted from rice flour, these intricate designs are deemed auspicious and are frequently accompanied by small lamps to create a warm and inviting ambiance.

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