Karthigai Deepam is a traditional event in Tamil Nadu and is also observed in nearby Karnataka, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh. The Thiruvannamali Maha Deepam is lit to commemorate the occasion in the town of Thiruvannamalai. At six o’clock in the evening, a huge clay lamp is lit atop the town’s sacred mountain, which is 2668 feet high. Devotees believe that the entire mountain is a symbol of a Shiva Linga. This lamp requires around 3500 kg of ghee to light it. This year, the festival was held on November 26.
This festival of lights involves lighting up to put an end to darkness. An important part of Karthigai Deepam is the making and waving of Mavoli. Mavoli are made from branches of trees, often palm trees. While the firewood is burning, people take it and circle it, creating a beautiful circular display called Mavoli. This year, youths of Kunthavai Naacchiyar Govt Arts College in Thanjavur celebrated the day by burning mavolis made of palm trees. This was done to raise awareness about the use of palm trees which are endangered and to revive the dying palm industry in the state. One of the youths said that they were burning mavolis all over Tamil Nadu.
People have always associated Karthigai Deepam with auspicious occasions. The festival is very old. Though the scriptures may not give a precise account of the history, there are occasional citations to historical works. The ancient Tamil poetry collection known as Ahananuru contains references to this festival of lights. This book, which discusses events from 200 BC to 300 AD, is among the best in Sangam literature. In her poetry, the famous Sangam era woman Avaiyyar also speaks of Karthigai Deepam.
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