Find divinity nestled in the lights that guide you to this famous festival of Tamilnadu, Karthigai Deepam. Rejoiced in the month of Karttikai (November-December) this festival is linked with the conjunction of moon with pournami and the constellation Karthigai(Pleiades). Festival of lights is what people revere this 3-day celebration as with the first day called Appa Karthigai: second as Vadai Karthigai and third as Thiru Karthigai. Spreading an air of zeal and prosperity, a huge lamp is lit on the last day of this religious festival which is called Maha Deepam. Travellers and Tamil natives devote their time in preaching the name of Lord Shiva and seeking his blessings.One interesting fact about the constellation that is linked to Karthigai Deepam is that it is a cluster of six stars shaped in the form of a pendant from the ear set up in the sky. As per Indian legend, it is said that the six stars are equivalent to the six heavenly nymphs who gave birth in saravana tank to six babies who were united together to sculpt the divine Lord Shiva's incarnation, the six faced Murugan (Lord Shiva's son).Tamil natives and wanderers from across the globe come here to cherish the true bond between a brother and sister and Karthigai Deepam is somehow closely etched to Bhaiya Duj and Rakshabandhan.In these popular festivals, sisters wish for divine happiness and success for their brothers by lighting diyas(clay oil lamps). The whole state twinkles like a galaxy with oil lamps from the time this festival is round the corner to spread the warmth of Indian culture and traditions along with embracing happiness and bliss and pushing away negative energy.
Brief History of the Festival
Turn over to the pages of Sangam Age (200 BC - 300 AD), as that's the time to which Agananooru (Book of poems) belongs that tells the history of Karthigai Deepam. As per the beautiful symphony of the poems, it is denoted that the auspicious festival is cherished on Purnima (full moon day) of the Karthigai month according to the Tamil calendar and is among the oldest celebrations of South India. Karthigai Deepam finds its special mention in the songs of Avaiyyar, one of the famous poets of ancient times.
Duration of the Festival
This 3-day festival is celebrated in the month of Karttikai (November- December) when the Kartik star and Purnima coincide with each other.
Highlights/Rituals of the Festival
- It is a 3-day festival which is closely related to Bhaiya Duj and Rakhi.
- Each day is called as Appa Karthigai, Vadai Karthigai, Thiru Karthigai, respectively. The last day of this auspicious festival is revered as Karthigai day where worshippers flock in numbers to seek blessings from Lord Shiva as the main pooja is performed. The main attraction of Karthigai day is the colossal fire lamp that is lit which is called Maha Deepam.
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