Kartigai Deepam, often seen as a “festival of festival” in South India, is an important Hindu festival celebrated with immense devotion and grandeur, especially in the state of Tamil Nadu. This festival symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and has a deep spiritual significance among devotees.
Date and time for 2024
In 2024, Kartigai Deepam is celebrated on Friday, 13 December. The festival time is completely associated with the presence of Kartigai Nakshthram (Star) during the Tamil month of Kartigai. According to the Hindu lunar calendar, the auspicious time is as follows:
Kartigai Nakshatram begins: 7:50 am on December 13, 2024
Kartigai Nakshatram ends: December 14, 2024 at 5:48 pm
The evening of 13 December is considered to be the most auspicious period for light lamps and rituals, as it is believed to enter dark and enlightenment.
Economic time
Importance of Kartigai Deepam
The roots of Kartigai Deepam return to ancient Tamil literature, in which dating between 200 BC and 300 CEs were found in works like Akana ṉuu. The festival is associated with many legends, mainly:
Lord Shiva was manifested as an infinite flame: It is believed that Lord Shiva appeared as an endless pillar of fire to settle the dispute between Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma over his supremacy. This incident reflects the immense and formless nature of Shiva.
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Birth of Lord Kartikeya (Murugan): The festival also remembers the birth of Lord Kartikeya, the god of war, which is revered in South India.
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During this festival, light oil lamp symbolizes the elimination of ignorance and the light of knowledge and spirituality.
Ceremonies and rituals
Celebrations clean their homes with devotees and decorate them with complex Kolmes (Rangoli) at the entrance. In the evening, earthen oil lamps are burnt and placed in and around in homes, making a mesmerized. The soft glow of these lamps is believed to invite prosperity and happiness.
One of the most famous ceremonies takes place at the Annamalir Temple in Thiruvanamalai. Here, a huge lamp, known as Mahadeepam, is burnt over the Annamalai hills, which is visible with miles. This phenomenon attracts millions of devotees who symbolize the presence of Lord Shiva, who gather to see the divine light.
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In Kerala, the festival is observed as Threachaka, which focuses on the worship of Goddess Parvati. The houses are illuminated with lamps, and special dishes are prepared to mark the opportunity.
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Cultural importance
Kartigai Deepam is not just a religious program, but also a cultural festival that confirms community bonds. Families come together, exchange sweets, and participate in communal prayers. The function of the lighting lamps is seen as a gesture of joy and warmth, promotes a sense of unity and solidarity.
Conclusion
Kartigai Deepam stands as a will for the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of South India. As a symbol of knowledge and divinity, the emphasis of the festival on light echoes deeply with devotees, making it a nurtured and eagerly awaited festival every year.
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