Karthigai Deepam Festival 2024 at Arunachaleswarar Temple: A Glorious Celebration

Karthigai Deepam Festival 2024 at Arunachaleswarar Temple: A Glorious Celebration

Introduction

Tiruvannamalai, home to the sacred Arunachaleswarar Temple, holds a place of deep spiritual significance in Tamil Nadu. The temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the Pancha Bhoota Stalams, representing the element of fire (Agni). Among the many festivals celebrated here, Karthigai Deepam stands out as the most revered. In 2024, this magnificent festival will be celebrated on 13th December. Let’s dive deep into the meaning, history, rituals, and practical details surrounding the Karthigai Deepam festival.

The Significance and History of Karthigai Deepam

Karthigai Deepam is an ancient festival that has been celebrated for centuries in Tamil Nadu. The festival marks the occasion when Lord Shiva appeared as an endless pillar of light to humble the egos of Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma. It symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and the triumph of divine truth.

The ten-day Brahmotsavam festival begins with the Dwajarohanam (hoisting of the flag), marking the official start of the celebrations. The highlight of the festival occurs on the tenth day when the Mahadeepam is lit atop the sacred Arunachala Hill, visible from miles around. This symbolic lighting signifies the presence of Lord Shiva in the form of a flame.

Karthigai Deepam 2024 Schedule:

Ten-Day Extravaganza starting Dec 13th, 2024

1. Day 1- Dec 13th, 2024 (Dwajarohanam): The festival begins with the hoisting of the flag, called Dwajarohanam, symbolizing the commencement of the Brahmotsavam. Lord Arunachaleswarar is taken out on a silver vahana (vehicle), accompanied by the Panchamurthis in a grand procession.
2. Day 2- Dec 14th, 2024 (Indira Vimanam): The Panchamurthis are paraded on Indira Vimanam, the chariot of Lord Indira, continuing the divine processions.
3. Day 3- Dec 15th, 2024 (Simha Vahana): The day starts with the ceremonial 1008 Sangu Abhishekam (conch shell offering). In the evening, Lord Arunachaleswarar graces the streets on the Simha Vahana (lion chariot).
4. Day 4- Dec 16th, 2024 (Kamadhenu Vahana): The Lord is carried on the Kamadhenu Vahana, the celestial cow believed to grant wishes.
5. Day 5- Dec 17th, 2024 (Rishaba Vahana): The Lord rides the magnificent Rishaba Vahana (bull vehicle), which stands 25 feet tall, making it a spectacle to behold.
6. Day 6- Dec 18th, 2024 (Silver Chariot and Nayanmars Procession): The 63 Nayanmars (Shiva devotees) are paraded, followed by a procession of Lord Arunachaleswarar on a stunning silver chariot.
7. Day 7- Dec 19th, 2024 (Maha Ratham): The Maha Ratham (large wooden chariot) carrying Lord Arunachaleswarar rolls through the streets, drawing large crowds.
8. Day 8- Dec 20th, 2024 (Horse Vahana): The Lord rides a horse vahana, where the horse’s four legs hover above the ground, adding a mystical element to the procession.
9. Day 9- Dec 21st, 2024 (Kailasa Vahana): Lord Arunachaleswarar is carried on the Kailasa Vahana, symbolizing Mount Kailash, the abode of Lord Shiva.
10. Day 10- Dec 22nd, 2024 (Bharani Deepam & Maha Deepam): The most sacred day of the festival begins early with the lighting of the Bharani Deepam inside the temple. In the evening, the towering Maha Deepam is lit atop Arunachala Hill, illuminating the entire landscape, and drawing thousands of devotees.

Do’s and Don’ts for Visitors

If you’re planning to attend the Karthigai Deepam festival at Arunachaleswarar Temple, here are some important tips to keep in mind:

Do's

• Arrive Early: The temple sees a mammoth gathering during the festival. Arriving early will help you secure a good spot to witness the processions and the lighting of the Maha Deepam.
• Follow Dress Code: As with any South Indian temple, ensure you wear traditional attire. Men are expected to wear dhotis or veshtis, and women are encouraged to wear sarees or traditional outfits.
• Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of the temple’s customs. Wait for your turn to enter the sanctum and participate in rituals.
• Stay Hydrated: December can be cool, but the large crowds and long processions can make you tired. Carry water with you and stay hydrated.
• Participate in Girivalam: The circumambulation of Arunachala Hill, called Girivalam, is a spiritually enriching experience that many devotees undertake.

Don’ts

• Avoid Littering: The temple and its surroundings are sacred spaces. Refrain from littering or causing any damage to the environment.
• Stay Clear of Unauthorized Vendors: Only purchase items from authorized stalls and vendors to avoid being scammed.
• Don't Push or Jostle: With large crowds, it’s easy to get impatient, but always maintain discipline in the temple and during processions.
• Avoid Bringing Large Bags: Security is stringent, and carrying large bags could cause delays at entry points.
• No Photography in Certain Areas: Photography is not allowed inside the sanctum or during certain rituals, so be sure to check the temple’s guidelines.

How to Reach Arunachaleswarar Temple, Tiruvannamalai

By Air:

The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, which is around 185 km from Tiruvannamalai. From the airport, you can hire a cab or take a bus to reach the town.

By Train:

Tiruvannamalai has its own railway station with good connectivity to major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and other parts of Tamil Nadu. Regular trains run to Tiruvannamalai from Chennai.

By Road:

Tiruvannamalai is well connected by road to major cities. Regular bus services run from Chennai, Bangalore, and other towns in Tamil Nadu. You can also hire private taxis to reach the temple.

Local Transport:

Once in Tiruvannamalai, you can get around by auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, or local buses. During the festival, traffic restrictions may apply, so walking is often the best way to navigate the town.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the best time to visit Tiruvannamalai?

The best time to visit is during the Karthigai Deepam festival or other major festivals. Apart from that, the weather is most pleasant from October to February.

Q2: Can non-Hindus visit the temple?

Yes, non-Hindus are allowed to visit the temple but are not permitted inside the sanctum sanctorum.

Q3: How long does the Girivalam take?

The Girivalam path is about 14 kilometers long and can take anywhere between 3-5 hours, depending on your pace.

Q4: What time is the Maha Deepam lit?

The Maha Deepam is lit around 6 PM on the tenth day of the festival, visible from anywhere in Tiruvannamalai.

Q5: Is there an entry fee to the temple?

There is no entry fee to the Arunachaleswarar Temple. However, special darshan tickets may be available during peak festival times.

Conclusion

The Karthigai Deepam festival at Arunachaleswarar Temple in Tiruvannamalai is a spiritually enriching and visually magnificent event. The festival is a spectacular spiritual experience that will leave a lasting impression. Make sure to plan your trip in advance, follow local customs, and immerse yourself in the divine celebrations of light and faith.

Image source: livechennai.com