Some nights don’t just hold darkness; they hold a quiet promise. Masik Karthigai is one of those nights. Small flames flicker in clay lamps, yet they speak of eternity. In Tamil homes and temples, rows of clay lamps flicker with eternal light, symbols of clarity, devotion, and hope. This monthly festival is not just about lighting lamps; it is about lighting your inner path.

In September 2025, Masik Karthigai falls on Friday, September 12, observed under the powerful spiritual star, Krittika Nakshatra. This day invites worship, reflection, and connection with Lord Shiva and Murugan’s divine flame, reminding us of cosmic truth and protection.

When is Masik Karthigai in September 2025?

Masik Karthigai 2025 will be observed on September 12, 2025, Friday, under the auspicious Krittika Nakshatra, known for its fiery, purifying energy.

Auspicious Timings for Puja and Lamp Lighting

• Morning rituals: 4:33 am – 5:43 am

• Abhijit Muhurat: 11:29 am – 12:19 pm

• Evening puja: 6:05 pm – 7:15 pm

• Moonrise: 9:59 pm

Lighting oil lamps during these times is believed to remove obstacles and bring divine blessings.

The Mythology and Origin of Masik Karthigai

Masik Karthigai honours the story of Lord Shiva’s endless pillar of flame, which humbled the gods Vishnu and Brahma. This eternal flame symbolises the infinite cosmic power and divinity beyond measure. The divine event known as the Lingodbhava is commemorated through this monthly festival, reminding devotees of the infinite nature of divine light.

Additionally, Masik Karthigai celebrates Lord Murugan, whose origin traces to six divine sparks nurtured by celestial maidens, representing pure energy and protection. Hence, lighting lamps honours both Shiva’s eternal flame and Murugan’s protective power.

How to observe Masik Karthigai 2025: Puja rituals and traditions

Though grand celebrations like Karthigai Deepam in December are famous, the monthly Masik Karthigai is equally meaningful. It is quieter, personal, and perfect for deep reflection. Here’s how devotees observe the day:

Step-by-step puja rituals:

• Cleanse and Prepare: Clean the home and puja altar. Take a ritual bath.

• Lighting Lamps: Light rows of oil lamps filled with sesame oil or ghee, symbolising the light of consciousness.

• Worship: Decorate idols or pictures of Lord Shiva and Murugan with flowers, sandalwood paste, and offerings of fruits and sweets.

• Mantras and Aarti: Mantras are recited, and aarti is performed. Chanting Om Namah Shivay is most common on this day. Listen and chant along on AstroSure.ai to invite clarity and protection.

• Sharing Prasad: Distribute blessed food (prasadam) to family and neighbours to spread spiritual goodwill.

Spiritual significance of Masik Karthigai 2025

Masik Karthigai is much more than lighting lamps. It is a symbol of:

• Light over darkness: Lamps chase away physical darkness but also stand for the removal of ignorance.

• Unity with the divine: By worshipping Shiva’s eternal flame, devotees align themselves with cosmic truth.

• Family and community bonds: Lighting lamps together creates a shared field of positivity, drawing families and neighbours closer.

• Inner renewal: For individuals, the day is a reminder to let go of emotional clutter and walk towards clarity.

Lamps signify our soul’s yearning to connect with the divine light, burning away ego and darkness.

Tiruvannamalai Mahadeepam: The crown of Masik Karthigai

The highlight of the festival is the lighting of the Mahadeepam atop the sacred Arunachala Hill in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu. This enormous flame lights up the night sky, symbolising divine presence and eternal light. Thousands gather, chanting and praying in unison, creating an atmosphere where the line between heaven and earth feels thin. Even those far away believe that lighting a lamp at home on this day connects them to that same divine radiance.

Additional observances to deepen Masik Karthigai devotion

Fasting and satvik diet: Observing a fast or eating light vegetarian meals amplifies spiritual focus.

Charitable acts: Giving food, clothes, or money multiplies merit and blessings on this day.

Meditation and silence: Sitting quietly by the lamp’s glow deepens inner stillness.

Purification rituals: Sprinkling Gangajal or lighting lamps in the southeast corner invites peace and positive energy at home.

Astrological insights: Krittika Nakshatra and Masik Karthigai energies

Astrologically, the day of Krittika Nakshatra is believed to be infused with fiery energy. It supports the removal of karmic obstacles, courage in personal challenges, and clarity in spiritual practices. If you are struggling with delays, confusion, or a sense of stagnation, observing Masik Karthigai helps align your personal energy with divine timing. 

You can also generate your personalised birth chart on AstroSure.ai to see how the Krittika star activates areas of your life. Ask Agastyaa for remedies that resonate with your chart.

Masik Karthigai 2025 reminds us that light dwells within every soul. The simple act of lighting a lamp symbolises saying yes to courage, clarity, and divine guidance. As you join in September’s festival, remember that darkness is never permanent. Each flame shines as proof that our inner light will always prevail.

Ask Agastyaa on AstroSure.ai for personalised Masik Karthigai rituals and guidance

Frequently Asked Questions about Masik Karthigai 2025

Q1: When is Masik Karthigai 2025 observed?

Masik Karthigai 2025 falls on Friday, September 12, 2025, under the spiritually significant Krittika Nakshatra.

Q2: What is the significance of Masik Karthigai?

This festival honors the divine cosmic flame of Lord Shiva and Lord Murugan, symbolizing light over darkness and spiritual protection.

Q3: How is Masik Karthigai celebrated?

Devotees light rows of oil lamps at home and temples, perform puja rituals, chant mantras like Om Namah Shivaya, and share prasadam.

Q4: What are the auspicious timings for Masik Karthigai puja?

Key muhurats include morning rituals (4:33-5:43 AM), Abhijit Muhurat (11:29 AM-12:19 PM), and evening puja (6:05-7:15 PM).

Q5: Can fasting or special diets be observed on Masik Karthigai?

Yes, many devotees fast fully or follow satvik (pure vegetarian) diets to enhance spiritual benefits and focus during the festival.