Karthika Deepam
Karthika PournamiKarthika Deepam, celebrated on Karthika Pournami, honors Lord Shiva and Murugan. It symbolizes divine light’s victory over darkness, with temples and homes glowing in devotion.
Karthika Deepam is a grand and spiritually significant festival celebrated at Sri Balagurunadheeswara Swamy Temple during the Karthika month, on the day of Krithika Nakshatra. On this auspicious day, a huge “Karthika Deepam” (lamp) is lit in front of the deity with 60 liters of ghee. The temple premises resonate with devotional chants, bhajans, and the sound of traditional musical instruments, creating a divine atmosphere. Thousands of devotees gather to witness this sacred event, offering prayers and lighting lamps as a mark of their devotion.
Special poojas and abhishekams are performed throughout the day, followed by Annadanam (free meal service) for devotees. The festival not only signifies spiritual enlightenment but also fosters unity and harmony among the devotees. Pilgrims from across the state, as well as from Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, participate in this grand celebration, seeking the divine blessings of Lord Shiva.
Rituals and Celebrations
Karthika Deepam is celebrated with various rituals and traditions:
Lighting of the Maha Deepam
The highlight of the festival is the grand lighting of the “Maha Deepam,” which is performed with great devotion and reverence. The lamp symbolizes the divine presence of Lord Shiva, and its illumination represents the removal of darkness from one’s life.
Deepa Aradhana (Lighting of Lamps)
Devotees light earthen lamps in and around their homes, temples, and streets. The sight of thousands of lamps glowing in the night sky creates a mesmerizing and spiritual ambiance.
Special Poojas and Abhishekams
Elaborate poojas, Rudrabhishekam, and other Vedic rituals are performed in temples, with devotees offering prayers, flowers, and sacred Bilva leaves to Lord Shiva.
Karthika Deepam is a festival of illumination, devotion, and divine blessings. It is a time to reflect on the eternal light within and dispel darkness from our lives. Whether through lighting lamps, participating in prayers, or serving others, celebrating Karthika Deepam fills the heart with joy and spiritual fulfillment.