Tiruvannamalai Karthigai Deepam Festival Highlights
The Karthigai Deepam festival held at the Tiruvannamalai Arunachaleswarar Temple is a globally renowned spiritual event. This year, the festival commenced on December 1st with the traditional flag hoisting ceremony, marking the beginning of this grand celebration.
Maha Deepam – The Pinnacle of the Festival:
- Barani Deepam:
Early this morning at 3:30 AM, the Barani Deepam was lit in front of the sanctum sanctorum of the Arunachaleswarar Temple, accompanied by loud chants of “Arohara!” from the devotees, symbolizing their devotion and faith. - Maha Deepam:
At 6:00 PM, the Maha Deepam was lit atop the 2,668-foot-high Annamalai Hill, marking the festival’s most anticipated event. Devotees gathered in large numbers to witness this divine moment, chanting “Arohara!” with fervor, filling the atmosphere with spiritual energy.
The Maha Deepam, representing Lord Shiva’s form as an eternal flame, is a sacred and awe-inspiring spectacle for the devotees.
Circumambulation (Girivalam) and Devotional Activities:
Devotees participated in Girivalam (circumambulation) around the sacred Annamalai Hill, seeking blessings and immersing themselves in devotion. The entire pathway resonated with devotional songs and prayers.
Special Transportation Arrangements:
- Special Buses:
To facilitate the movement of devotees, 850 special buses were operated from various parts of Tamil Nadu to Tiruvannamalai. - Special Trains:
Unreserved special trains were also run from Chennai Tambaram, offering convenience for pilgrims traveling to the festival.
Significance of the Festival:
- The Karthigai Deepam festival is a celebration of spirituality and faith, symbolizing the manifestation of Lord Shiva as an eternal flame, known as Arunachala or Agni Mahadeepam.
- It holds a deep spiritual significance, representing the triumph of divine light over darkness and ignorance.
The Tiruvannamalai Karthigai Deepam Festival stands as a monumental celebration of devotion, attracting thousands of devotees every year and serving as a beacon of Tamil Nadu’s rich spiritual heritage.
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