Popular Murugan Festivals

Lord Murugan, the divine warrior and embodiment of wisdom, is celebrated through various festivals across the Tamil calendar. Each of these festivals carries deep spiritual significance and strengthens the devotion of his followers.

1. Thaipusam (Thai Poosam)

📅 Timing: Full moon day in the Tamil month of Thai (January/February)
🔹 Significance: Thaipusam marks the day when Goddess Parvati gifted Lord Murugan the Vel (divine spear) to vanquish the demon Soorapadman. Devotees observe fasting, carry Kavadis, and seek Murugan’s divine grace through penance and prayers.

2. Panguni Uthiram

📅 Timing: Full moon day in Panguni (March/April)
🔹 Significance: This festival celebrates the celestial wedding of Lord Murugan with Deivanai Thayaar. It is considered an auspicious day for marriages and divine unions.

3. Vaikasi Visakam

📅 Timing: Visakam Nakshatra in the Tamil month of Vaikasi (May/June)
🔹 Significance: This sacred day marks the birth of Lord Murugan. Devotees celebrate with abhishekams, special prayers, and processions, honoring the divine incarnation of the Lord.

4. Aadi Krithigai

📅 Timing: Krithika Nakshatra in the Tamil month of Aadi (July/August)
🔹 Significance: This festival commemorates the divine act of Lord Murugan creating the six Krittikas (celestial mothers) and receiving their blessings. Devotees offer prayers and seek strength and courage from the Lord.

5. Skanda Sashti

📅 Timing: Begins on the sixth day (Shashti) of the waxing moon in Aippasi (October/November)
🔹 Significance: Skanda Sashti is a six-day festival commemorating Lord Murugan’s victory over the demon Soorapadman. Devotees observe fasting, chant Skanda Sashti Kavasam, and participate in temple processions.

6. Soorasamharam

📅 Timing: Final day of Skanda Sashti (October/November)
🔹 Significance: The grand re-enactment of Lord Murugan’s triumph over Soorapadman takes place on this day. Temples stage dramatic portrayals of the battle, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.

7. Karthigai Deepam

📅 Timing: Tamil month of Karthigai (November/December)
🔹 Significance: This festival of lights is closely associated with both Lord Murugan and Lord Shiva. Devotees light oil lamps to dispel darkness and celebrate divine radiance. The grand lighting of Mahadeepam atop Arunachala Hill in Tiruvannamalai is a major highlight of this festival.

These vibrant festivals not only celebrate the glory of Lord Murugan but also deepen the spiritual connection of his devotees. Each celebration is an opportunity to seek divine blessings, perform penance, and immerse in Murugan Bhakti.

Vetrivel Muruganukku Arohara!