Amidst all-year-round celebrations in the city, Madurai streets glitter in the month of Karthigai. One special day that I don’t miss out on going out and exploring would be the “Periya” Karthigal — the full moon day of the Tamil month Karthigai when the streets are yellow-lit and free of darkness and evil spirits according to Hindu belief. This story is a photo compilation of Karthigai celebrations in my city over the years.
In ‘light’ of this event, rows of Agal Vilukkus (clay oil lamps) are lit in houses to provide good fortune.
On the 10th day of the celebrations, the Maha Deepam is lit on the top of the Thiruparangundram hill in the evening and celebrations start at the summit of the hill where the Murugan Temple is located.
Once the fire ceases, people rush to collect burnt sticks from the bonfire. It is believed that the sticks when planted in farm fields are believed to bring abundant yields during harvest.
More photos of Karthigai celebrations in different parts of the city;
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