Karthigai Masam, or Karthika month, is the eighth month in a traditional Tamil calendar and it derives its name from the Nakshatram, or star, ‘Krithiga.’ Tamil Month Karthigai in 2025 begins on November 17 and ends on December 15. The Mondays in the month are dedicated to Lord Shiva and Karthigai Somavara Vratam is observed. Another important ritual in the month is the Karthigai Deepam. Ayyappa devotees start the 41-day Ayyappa Deeksha Vratam and take a pilgrimage to Sabarimala in this month.
Importance of Karthigai Masam
- Karthigai Deepam
Karthigai Masam is also famous for the row of lights that are lit in the month. Houses and streets are decorated on the Karthigai star day in the month with lamps and it is known as Karthigai Deepam (December 4, 2025).
- Thiruvannamalai Deepam
- Maha Bharani
Another significant event in this month is the Mahabharani which is observed in Shiva temples by lighting bonfires.
- Significance of the name of the month
- Mondays in Karthigai Masam
- Sabarimala Temple Darshan Begins
Karthigai Pournami and Amavasya
Karthigai Pournami, or full moon day, on December 4
Karthigai Amavasya is on November 20
Other Auspicious days
Ekadasi Fasting dates are on
December 1 (Kaisiki Ekadasi)
December 15
Pradosh Fasting Dates are on
November 17
December 2
Sashti Fasting date is on
November 26Sankashti Pillayar Chaturthi
December 7Other Auspicious days
Sabarimala Darshan begins on November 17
Birthday of Sathya Sai Baba November 23 (annually held on the same day).
Mahasamadhi day of Sri Aurobindo on December 5 (annually held on the same day).
Karthigai Deepam - Vaikanasa Deepam - December 4
Birthday of Subramania Bharati on December 11.
Birthday of Subramania Bharati on December 11.