Karthigai Deepam 2025

Tamilians celebrate Karthigai Deepam

Karthika Deepam is a Hindu festival of lights. It is mainly observed by Tamilians and  is celebrated on the first full moon day of the month of Karthigai coinciding with Kṛttikā nakshatra, falling on the Gregorian months of November or December.  It is  one of the oldest and most sacred festivals celebrated all over. It is also called the Festival of Lights  and its roots go back thousands of years. 

In Mumbai temples and  homes are lit with rows of  lamps and  ladies attired in colourful dresses  go to temples and pray to Lord Shiva and Lord Karthikeya to ward off evil forces and bring happiness to the family. On this day people light oil lamps usually made of clay. The oil lamps are considered auspicious symbols in Hinduism and are believed to ward off evil forces, and usher in prosperity and joy.

According to a legend  Karthigai Deepam links to the birth of Lord Murugan also called Karthikeya. Lord Murugan was formed from six sparks that emanated from Lord Shiva’s third eye. These sparks were carried by the six Krittika maidens, who nurtured the divine child. Murugan then appeared as a radiant god with six faces, known as Aarumugam. The festival celebrates this sacred connection with the Krittika star and the divine child who brings courage, wisdom  and protection.