Karthigai Deepam

 Karthigai Deepam is one of the oldest festivals celebrated by Dravidians. The festival finds reference in Sangam literature like Ahananuru and the poems of Auvaiyar. Karthigai Deepam is celebrated on the full moon day (pournami) of the month of Karthigai (mid-November to mid-December).On this day the full moon is in conjunction with the constellation Karthigai (Pleiades).

The festival is observed in every home and every temple.Rows of Agal vilakkus (oil lit lamps) are lit in every house. Karthigai is essentially a festival of lamps. The lighted lamp is considered an auspicious symbol. It is believed to ward off evil forces and usher in prosperity and joy. Read more of this post