Join the Siva Gnana Sabay (SGS) on 3 December, from 6pm to 8pm to celebrate Karthigai Deepam, a revered Saivite festival celebrated with great fervor by the Indian community in South Africa. Observed on the full moon day of the Tamil month of Karthigai, this festival commemorates the triumph of light over darkness.
The festival is marked by the lighting of velkas (lamps) in homes and temples, symbolising the triumph of light over darkness. Devotees gather at temples, such as the Siva Gnana Sabay, to offer prayers and seek blessings.
The festivities begin with devotees carrying a Deepam or lamp around the temple and placing them strategically around the premises.
In South Africa, the Indian community comes together to celebrate this festival with great enthusiasm. Cultural events, including traditional dances and music, are organised in various cities. The festival serves as a platform for the community to strengthen bonds and pass on traditions to the younger generation.
This year, the Siva Gnana Sabay (SGS) is using this day to also honor its late founding members -Thiru Somasundaram (Marie) Pillay, Thiru Chengalryan Niney Moodley, and Thiru Sassie Pather – together with the temple anniversary. As the flames of the deepams illuminate the night sky, devotees chant prayers and seek divine blessings.
Karthigai Deepam is a celebration of light, love, and unity, and is an integral part of the rich cultural heritage of the Indian community in South Africa. Happy Karthigai Deepam!
For more info, call Maggie Govinden on 082 464 9509.
Image: Getty Images
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