Karthigai Deepam is a cherished festival celebrated with great devotion across Tamil Nadu and parts of South India, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. This divine festival centers on worshipping Lord Shiva and his son Lord Murugan, offering devotees spiritual purification and blessings for prosperity.
Date and Timings for 2025:
- Krittika Nakshatra begins at 5:59 PM on December 3, 2025.
- Krittika Nakshatra ends at 2:54 PM on December 4, 2025.
- The main festival day falls on Thursday, December 4, 2025.
Importance of Karthigai Deepam:
Karthigai Deepam translates to "Festival of Lights," where thousands of clay oil lamps, called Agal Vilakku, are lit in homes and temples. The light represents overcoming the darkness of evil and ignorance. The grand illumination at the Annamalaiyar Temple in Tiruvannamalai, where the Maha Deepam (massive lamp) is lit atop the Annamalai Hill, is a highlight of the festival that draws devotees from far and wide. This primal flame is seen as a manifestation of Lord Shiva’s infinite energy.
Mythological Stories:
- Lord Shiva appeared as an endless column of fire to assert his supreme power over Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu when they debated supremacy.
- Lord Murugan’s birth is celebrated as the transformation of six sparks of fire from Shiva’s faces into six divine infants nurtured by the Krittika stars, later united as one child with six faces by Goddess Parvati.
Rituals to Observe:
- Homes are cleaned thoroughly and decorated with kolams (rangoli) and mango leaf festoons.
- Oil lamps filled with turmeric-treated oil and wicks are prepared and lit in odd numbers outside homes.
- Throughout the night, lamps remain lit to invite divine blessings and ward off negativity.
- Devotees visit Shiva and Murugan temples, offering prayers for health, prosperity, and peace.
- Special mantras like "Subham Karoti Kalyanam" and "Deepajyothi Parabrahma" are chanted to invoke positive energies.
Astrological Significance:
The festival falls on the full moon day in the Tamil month of Karthigai when the Moon is in the Krittika Nakshatra, ruled by Lord Agni (fire deity). Lighting lamps during this time is believed to cleanse bad karma and promote courage and spiritual transformation.
Festival Duration:
Karthigai Deepam is typically observed over three days, with each day having special significance culminating in the grand lamp-lighting ceremony.
FAQs:
- How many days does Karthigai Deepam last?
It lasts three days, starting with Bharani Deepam and culminating on the main festival day. - Why is Lord Murugan associated with Karthigai Deepam?
Murugan was born in the Karthigai month and cared for by the Krittika stars, linking the festival to his divine birth. - Which temple is most famous for Karthigai Deepam?
Annamalaiyar Temple in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu, is renowned for its celebrated Maha Deepam lighting. - What is the significance of lighting lamps?
Lamps symbolize the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and the removal of negative energies.
Conclusion:
Karthigai Deepam 2025 invites everyone to illuminate their homes and hearts with lamps as a metaphor for spreading wisdom, courage, and peace. This ancient festival continues to inspire devotion and unity, reminding us to embrace inner light during the darkest times.
हिंदी में पढ़ें
