Karthigai Deepam 2024 is a vibrant and spiritual festival widely celebrated in Tamil Nadu, India. Known as the “Festival of Lights,” it marks a special occasion of devotion, light, and divine blessings. The festival falls on the full moon day in the Tamil month of Karthigai, which typically occurs in November or December.
Its significance is enhanced by the appearance of the Krittika star during this time. Devotees celebrate by lighting lamps, offering prayers, and embracing the symbolic victory of light over darkness. In 2024, Karthigai Deepam will be observed on December 13.
Karthigai Deepam 2024
Karthigai Deepam 2024, a cherished festival of Tamil Nadu, will be celebrated on December 13. Known as the “Festival of Lights,” it signifies the triumph of light over darkness and is deeply rooted in spiritual devotion. The festival occurs on the full moon day in the Tamil month of Karthigai, aligning with the Krittika star’s appearance.
On this auspicious day, homes and temples glow with oil lamps as devotees offer prayers and celebrate divine blessings. The iconic lighting of the Maha Deepam atop Arunachala Hill in Thiruvannamalai is a highlight, drawing pilgrims to witness this extraordinary spiritual event.
Karthigai Deepam 2024 Date and Time
Karthigai Deepam 2024 is set to be celebrated on Friday, December 13. Here are the important timings for the festival:
| Karthigai Deepam 2024 Date and Time | ||
|---|---|---|
| Event | Date | Time |
| Karthigai Deepam | Friday, December 13, 2024 | – |
| Karthigai Nakshathram Begins | December 13, 2024 | 07:50 AM |
| Karthigai Nakshathram Ends | December 14, 2024 | 05:48 AM |
Karthigai Deepam 2024 Significance
Karthigai Deepam, a vibrant Tamil festival, is celebrated with immense devotion in the sacred town of Tiruvannamalai. The festival derives its name from the Tamil word “Deepam,” meaning “light.” Held annually on the full moon day of the Karthigai month, it features the lighting of a grand beacon atop the Arunachala hill, symbolizing divine illumination.
As per Hindu scriptures, Tiruvannamalai is revered as a holy site embodying the element of fire, known as Agnishetra. It is believed that Lord Shiva appeared here as a towering column of light to resolve a celestial dispute between Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma.
The temple’s Shiva Linga, known as Agni Linga, represents the fiery essence of the divine. During Karthigai Deepam, this spiritual event is celebrated with dazzling lights, heartfelt prayers, and an atmosphere brimming with devotion and energy.
Karthigai Deepam 2024 Rituals
The Tiruvannamalai Deepam festival is a cherished 10-day celebration in the Tamil calendar, held at the renowned Arunachaleswarar Temple in Tiruvannamalai. Each day of the festival carries unique significance, starting with the ceremonial flag hoisting on Uthradam day to mark its commencement.
The festival’s grand finale is the lighting of the Bharani Deepam on the 10th day. This sacred lamp, lit in the early morning, draws thousands of devotees who gather to offer prayers. According to legend, the flame of the Bharani Deepam transforms into the divine form of Lord Muruga and ascends to the heavens, symbolizing divine energy and blessings.
This festival also honors the birth of Lord Muruga, born from six fiery sparks of Lord Shiva’s third eye. His birth signifies the victory of truth over evil. Devotees pay homage to Lord Muruga by lighting ghee lamps and preparing special food offerings, creating an atmosphere filled with devotion and spiritual fervor.
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Karthigai Deepam 2024 FAQs
Q.1. What is the date of Karthigai Deepam 2024?
Ans. Karthigai Deepam 2024 will be celebrated on Friday, December 13, 2024.
Q.2. Why is Karthigai Deepam called the “Festival of Lights”?
Ans. It is called the “Festival of Lights” because devotees light lamps to symbolize the victory of light over darkness and offer prayers for divine blessings.
Q.3. What is the significance of the Maha Deepam at Arunachala Hill?
Ans. The Maha Deepam atop Arunachala Hill represents Lord Shiva’s divine light, symbolizing spiritual enlightenment and unity.
Q.4. How is Lord Muruga connected to Karthigai Deepam?
Ans. The festival honors Lord Muruga, born from Lord Shiva’s fiery sparks, symbolizing the triumph of truth over evil.
Q.5. What rituals are performed during Karthigai Deepam?
Ans. Devotees light ghee lamps, offer prayers, prepare special food offerings, and witness the Bharani Deepam and Maha Deepam as part of the celebration.
