Karthigai 2023
Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant festival of Karthigai, which will be celebrated in 2023 with great pomp and fervor. This ancient Hindu festival, also known as Karthigai Deepam, holds immense significance and is observed on the full moon day in the month of Karthigai, which falls between November and December. It is a time when homes are adorned with diyas (oil lamps), streets are lit up, and families come together to celebrate the triumph of light over darkness.
Attracting devotees from all over the world, Karthigai Deepam is particularly celebrated with great enthusiasm in the southern states of India, especially Tamil Nadu. The festival is dedicated to Lord Muruga, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and is celebrated to commemorate his appearance as a divine flame.
Rituals and Traditions
The celebrations of Karthigai Deepam begin with the cleaning and decoration of homes. People make beautiful kolams (rangoli designs) in front of their houses using rice flour, colored powders, and flowers. This not only adds to the festive spirit but also symbolizes prosperity and good luck.
The most important ritual of the festival is the lighting of hundreds of oil lamps. The entire household is illuminated with diyas, creating a breathtaking sight. Devotees also light diyas outside their homes and on the streets, creating a mesmerizing ambiance. It is believed that these lamps dispel darkness, negativity, and evil forces.
Significance and Symbolism
Karthigai Deepam holds great spiritual significance as it signifies the awakening of divine light within oneself. It is a time to let go of darkness, ignorance, and negative emotions, and embrace positivity, knowledge, and enlightenment.
The festival symbolizes the victory of good over evil and is a reminder that light will always prevail, no matter how strong the darkness may seem. It is a time for families to come together, strengthen their bonds, and spread joy and happiness.
