கார்த்திகை தீபம்
A festival of lamps on the Karthigai star; rows of oil lamps are lit for light and auspiciousness.
Karthigai Deepam is an ancient Tamil festival of lamps, celebrated when the full moon meets the Karthigai star in the month of Karthigai (November–December). Homes and temples are lit with rows of oil lamps.
At the Arunachaleswarar temple in Tiruvannamalai, a great lamp is lit atop the hill and seen for miles — a symbol of the infinite light of Shiva. In homes, the lamps are believed to ward off darkness and invite prosperity.
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Frequently asked questions
What is Karthigai Deepam?
Karthigai Deepam is an old Tamil festival of lamps. Homes and temples are lit with rows of small oil lamps. It is one of the oldest festivals of light.
When is Karthigai Deepam?
It falls in the Tamil month Karthigai, in November or December. It is the day the full moon meets the Karthigai star.
Why do people celebrate Karthigai Deepam?
The lamps stand for the light of Shiva. They are lit to keep darkness away and to invite good things. It is a calm, bright evening.
How is Karthigai Deepam celebrated?
People light rows of clay lamps at home and at the temple. In Tiruvannamalai, a huge lamp is lit on the hill. It can be seen for miles.