Karthigai Deepam 2026 – Date, Significance & Timings
24
November 2026
Tuesday
Karthigai Deepam 2026
About Karthigai Deepam
Karthigai Deepam is the Tamil Festival of Lights, celebrated on the full moon of the Tamil month of Karthigai when the moon is in Krittika Nakshatra. Rows of oil lamps (kuthu vilakku) are lit in every home, and the Karthigai Deepam bonfire at Tiruvannamalai attracts millions of pilgrims.
Significance
Karthigai Deepam is associated with Lord Shiva manifesting as an infinite column of fire (Jyotirlinga) at Tiruvannamalai. A massive beacon fire is lit on the hill of Arunachala on this night, visible for miles. At home, the lighting of lamps symbolises the removal of darkness and ignorance.
How the Date is Determined
Karthigai Deepam falls on the full moon (Purnima) of the Tamil month of Karthigai (November–December) when the Moon is in Krittika (Pleiades) Nakshatra.
Related Festivals
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Tiruvannamalai Karthigai Deepam?
The Tiruvannamalai Karthigai Deepam is one of the most spectacular Hindu religious events. A giant beacon fire (mahadeepam) is lit on the Arunachala hill, symbolising Lord Shiva's manifestation as a column of fire. Millions of pilgrims attend.
How is Karthigai Deepam celebrated at home?
Homes are decorated and lit with rows of oil lamps from dusk to midnight. Traditional sweets like Pori Urundai (puffed rice balls with jaggery), Appam, and Adai are prepared. Lamps are lit in rows on walls, steps, and courtyards.
When is Karthigai Deepam 2026?
Karthigai Deepam falls on the Karthigai Purnima (full moon with Krittika Nakshatra) in November or December. Check the festivals calendar for the exact 2026 date.