Thirukarthigai Deepam 2025: Must-Do Rituals & Traditions You Shouldn’t Miss!
Tamil Nadu is preparing to celebrate Thirukarthigai Deepam, one of the most revered festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Murugan. This festival of divine light symbolizes purity, knowledge, and the triumph of goodness over darkness.
On the day of Thirukarthigai, devotees begin their day with an early morning bath and by lighting the first lamp at home — marking the start of the Deepam fast. Those who observe the fast traditionally avoid solid food, sustaining themselves on fruits and fruit juices throughout the day.
The highlight of the festival is the Karthigai Deepam Pooja, performed at home and in temples on the full moon day of the Tamil month of Karthigai. Devotees set up an altar with images of Lord Shiva and Lord Murugan, decorate it with flowers, and light rows of lamps symbolizing divine energy and enlightenment.
According to custom, 27 lamps should be lit in specific places:
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Two at the entrance
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Two in the hallway
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One in the kitchen
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Four at the back of the house
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Two before the deities
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One Ema Deepam for protection from untimely death
Additionally, five lamps are lit on Bharani Deepam, marking the spiritual beginning of the festival. Devotees also visit nearby Shiva temples, lighting lamps with cow ghee, and offering prayers for prosperity and well-being.
At Tiruvannamalai, the celebration reaches its divine climax when the Maha Deepam is lit atop Arunachala Hill, representing Lord Shiva’s eternal flame. Witnessing this sacred light is considered highly auspicious and spiritually uplifting.
While Karthigai Deepam is observed throughout the month, Thirukarthigai day holds the greatest significance, coinciding with the full moon (Pournami). The festival’s date changes each year based on the lunar calendar.
As lamps glow across Tamil Nadu, Thirukarthigai Deepam reminds devotees to light not just their homes, but their hearts – with faith, wisdom, and the eternal light of the divine.
