Karthigai Deepam — The Festival of Sacred Lamps

Karthigai Deepam is a luminous South Indian festival celebrated on the full moon day of the Tamil month of Karthigai. It is one of the oldest festivals in Tamil tradition and is associated with Lord Murugan (Kartikeya) and Lord Shiva. According to legend, Lord Shiva appeared as an infinite column of fire (Jyotirlinga) on this day to humble Brahma and Vishnu, affirming his supreme nature. The festival is celebrated by lighting rows of oil lamps (deepams) — in homes, streets, and temples — creating a breathtaking sea of light. The great Karthigai Deepam beacon lit atop Thiruvannamalai’s Arunachala hill is one of India’s most iconic spiritual spectacles.

HTSNM honors this ancient festival of light with the lighting of sacred deepams and special prayers to Lord Murugan and Lord Shiva.

This date is noted on our temple calendar as an observance for devotees’ reference. There is no scheduled program or gathering at the temple for this occasion. Devotees are welcome to make offerings at home or during regular temple hours.