கார்த்திகை தீபம்
A festival of lamps on the Karthigai star; rows of oil lamps are lit for light and auspiciousness.
All dates in 2027(1)
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.