Karthigai Deepam
Karthigai Deepam is a 10-day festival celebrated by the people of Tamil Nadu and also in parts of Karnataka, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh. The Karthigai month is considered auspicious as it marks the birth month of Lord Muruga. On the 10th day, known as Uthradam day, the celebrations begin with lighting the deepam at the top of the hill by temple associates.
Mythological Significance
According to mythology, two Hindu deities once argued over who was superior. The worried devas approached Lord Shiva for help. Shiva appeared before them as a pillar of fire and instructed them to find the beginning and end of this fire column. The one who succeeded would be declared superior.
Lord Vishnu dug deep into the earth to find the bottom of the pillar, while Brahma transformed into a swan to fly upward in search of the top. Both were unsuccessful, but Brahma lied that he had reached the top. This made Lord Shiva angry. He cursed Brahma and declared himself the supreme god, dissolving their ego. Shiva then appeared in the form of the sacred mountain at Tiruvannamalai.
Another Belief
Some believe that Karthigai Deepam is linked to Lord Muruga, son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Muruga was born from six sparks of divine light, which were cared for by the six Karthigai stars (Karthigai Pengal). These six forms later merged into one child, Muruga—also known as Aarumugam—on the auspicious day of Karthigai Deepam.
Method of Celebrating Karthigai Deepam at Home
To celebrate at home:
- Light a deepam in the evening and worship Lord Shiva.
- Offer paniyaram, sweet pongal, and adhirasam as neivedhyam.
- Chant Shiva mantras and devotional songs.
- Light lamps (Agal Vilakku) on all three days to bring serenity to the home.
Slogans to Be Chanted During Karthigai Deepam
“Subham Karoti Kalyanam Arogyam Dhana Sampadah. Shatru Buddhi Vinashaya Deepa Jyoti Namostute”
“Deepajyothi Parabrahma Deepajyothi Janardhana. Deepo Me Hara Tu Paapam Sandhya Deepa Namostute”
Chanting Panchakshara Mantra gives strength and removes darkness:
“Om Na Ma Shi Va Ya”