Festival of lights - Karthigai Deepam at Thiruvanamalai, Tamil Nadu - India
One of Tamil Nadu, South India's oldest customary celebrations. With its ancient temples and rich cultural legacy, Tamil Nadu has numerous festivals, each with its own customs and religious meaning. Tamil Nadu's neighboring states, including Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Sri Lanka, also celebrate Kartika Deepam. Kartika Deepam, also called Kartika Mahadeepatsav or the Festival of Lights, is a festival that is particularly celebrated at Thiruvannamalai's Annamalaiyar Temple and lasts for roughly ten days. During the Tamil month of Kartika Pournami (full moon day), every Tamilian takes pride in commemorating Kartika Deepam as their auspicious occasion to honor the great supreme god, Lord Shiva, and Lord Muruga. In addition to its deep religious significance, this festival represents spiritual enlightenment and devotion for the millions of devotees. What is Kartika Deepam? The name itself speaks its significance Kartika means Tamil Month Kartikai which usually falls b...