Thrikarthika: Kerala's Festival of Lights and its Cultural Significance

Thrikarthika - The Festival of lights

Thrikarthika is the festival of lights celebrated in Kerala on the Kartika Nakshatram (star) in the Malayalam month Vrischikam (mid-November to mid-December). It typically coincides with the full moon day of that month. On this, after sunset, all houses, streets, and temples are beautifully illuminated using traditional oil lamps made out of clay called Chirad.

The festival is not attributed to any particular deity within the Hindu pantheon. However, some people believe it is dedicated to Shakti known as Bhagavati in Kerala. Others suggest it may represent an ancient form of nature worship. Another school of thought considers this day as the Birthday of Goddess Parvathi, consort of Lord Shiva.

On Thrikarthika day, after sunset, houses, streets, and temples are adorned with special oil lamps (clay lamps referred to in Malayalam as chirad) and candles as offerings to the Goddess on her birthday. The stems of banana plants and tender leaves from coconut trees are used to enhance the decoration of these Thrikarthika lamps. These lamps are specifically placed on banana stems supported by coconut leaves.

Those with domestic animals also extend these decorations to their cowsheds and other places where animals reside. Special food items such as Tapioca, elephant yam, and other tubers are prepared with grated coconut on this day; this dish is known as Kartika Puzhukku. In Trivandrum specifically, 'ella appam' is traditionally prepared instead of puzhukku.

The interplay between the full moon night & Thrikarthika lamps creates a stunning visual experience for viewers.

On this same day, Tiruvannamalai Mahadeepam takes place in neighboring Tamil Nadu where Tamil people celebrate it as the birthday of Lord Murugan.

FAQs:

What is Thrikarthika?

Thrikarthika is a festival of lights celebrated in Kerala, observed on the Kartika Nakshatram in the Malayalam month of Vrischikam.

When is Thrikarthika celebrated?

It typically falls between mid-November and mid-December, coinciding with the full moon day.

What are the main traditions of Thrikarthika?

The festival involves lighting traditional oil lamps (chirad) in homes, streets, and temples, and preparing special dishes like Kartika Puzhukku.

Is Thrikarthika dedicated to a specific deity?

While not dedicated to a particular deity, it is often associated with Goddess Shakti or Bhagavati, and sometimes seen as a celebration of nature.

How does Thrikarthika differ from other festivals?

Thrikarthika emphasizes peace and silence, with no use of fireworks, and focuses on the illumination of homes and surroundings.