Masik Karthigai 2026

Masik Karthigai is one of the most sacred monthly observances dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Murugan (Kartikeya). It is celebrated every month on the day when Karthigai Nakshatra (Krittika Nakshatra) appears, making it an auspicious time for spiritual growth, protection, and divine blessings. The festival holds deep importance in South India—especially in Tamil Nadu—where devotees light Karthigai Deepam (sacred lamps) to remove darkness, negativities, and obstacles from life. When observed with purity and devotion, Masik Karthigai brings peace, prosperity, and divine grace to the household. This detailed guide covers Masik Karthigai 2026 dates, significance, rituals, fasting rules, puja procedure, katha, benefits, and more.

Masik Karthigai is observed monthly when the Karthigai (Krittika) Nakshatra is active. This nakshatra is associated with: Lord Shiva

Lord Murugan (Skanda / Karthikeya)

Agni Deva (the Fire God)

Lighting lamps is the central ritual, symbolizing: Victory of light over darkness

Removal of negativity

Spiritual illumination

Divine protection

According to scriptures, Karthigai Nakshatra is believed to destroy sins, heal emotional wounds, and strengthen family bonds.

In Shaivism The day is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshipped through: Oil lamps

Ghee lamps

Aarti

Rudra Abhishekam

Deepa puja

It is believed that performing Shiva puja on Karthigai grants longevity, peace, and removal of karmic suffering. In Murugan Worship The day is especially sacred for followers of Lord Murugan, the son of Shiva and Parvati. Murugan devotees observe it for: Overcoming obstacles

Protection from enemies

Mental strength

Courage and success

Karthigai Deepam Connection The yearly festival Karthigai Deepam—celebrated grandly in Tamil Nadu—falls on the Karthigai nakshatra day in the Tamil month of Karthigai. In 2026, Karthigai Deepam occurs on 24 November 2026 (Tuesday).

Masik Karthigai holds deep spiritual and religious importance:

1. Removal of Negative Energies Lighting lamps on this day is believed to burn away: Bad karma

Evil eye

Negativity

Darkness of the mind

2. Protection from Obstacles Lord Murugan is worshipped as the Lord of Victory, removing obstacles and fears.
3. Strengthening Family Bonds The festival is known to improve: Harmony

Happiness

Mutual respect

Emotional connection within the family

4. Mental and Emotional Healing Worshipping Lord Shiva brings: Calmness

Peace of mind

Relief from stress

Detachment from harmful thoughts

5. Prosperity and Household Wellbeing Lighting traditional oil lamps is believed to invite: Wealth

Stability

Success

Blessings from ancestors

6. Spiritual Awakening Karthigai Nakshatra is connected to Agni (fire), symbolizing purity, transformation, and enlightenment.

Anyone can observe it, but it is particularly beneficial for: Women and Families For peace and prosperity

For protection of children

For marital harmony

For fertility blessings

Students For intelligence

Concentration

Academic success

Professionals For career growth

Victory over challenges

Stability

Devotees of Shiva and Murugan This vrat strengthens spiritual connection and devotion. People facing challenges Health issues

Stress and depression

Family disputes

Financial problems

Step 1: Morning Rituals Wake up early

Take a holy bath

Clean the puja area and entrance

Wear clean traditional clothes

Step 2: Sankalp (Taking the Vow) Sit in front of the lamp or deity and take a vow to observe the puja with devotion. Step 3: Lamp Preparation Lighting lamps is the main ritual: Use clay, brass, or silver lamps

Fill with oil or ghee

Use cotton wicks

Light multiple lamps for auspiciousness

Step 4: Puja Setup Keep the following ready: Image or idol of Lord Shiva or Lord Murugan

Flowers, fruits

Kumkum, turmeric

Incense sticks

Naivedya (prasad)

Oil lamps

Step 5: Lord Shiva Puja Offer water, flowers, and bel leaves

Perform Rudra or Shiva mantra chanting

Mantra: “Om Namah Shivaya” Step 6: Lord Murugan Puja Offer sandal paste and flowers

Recite Subramanya or Skanda stotra

Mantra: “Om Saravanabhavaya Namah” Step 7: Lighting of Lamps This is the most important ritual. Place lamps: At the entrance

In the puja room

Around the house

Step 8: Aarti and Prayer Perform aarti to Shiva or Murugan while ringing a bell. Step 9: Charity Offering charity increases the merit of the vrat: Donate food

Oil for lamps

Clothes

Money to the poor

Fasting is optional but recommended. Allowed Foods Milk, fruits

Coconut, dry fruits

Sabudana (sago)

Curd

Rock salt meals

Not Allowed Onion and garlic

Non-veg

Alcohol

Grains (for strict vrat)

Spicy or fried food

Breaking the Fast End the fast after sunset or after puja by consuming simple satvik food.

According to the legend, once a demon created immense darkness and troubles on earth. The devas prayed to Lord Shiva for help. At that moment, a divine spark of fire emerged from Shiva’s forehead. From this divine fire, Lord Murugan was born. The devas lit lamps throughout heaven to welcome him. These lamps symbolized: Victory of light

End of evil

Return of peace

Since then, devotees light lamps on Karthigai day to receive the blessings of Lord Shiva and Murugan.

1. Protection from Negativity Lord Murugan removes unseen dangers and negative energies.
2. Marital Harmony Lighting lamps and performing puja brings peace and love between couples.
3. Good Health The fire element (Agni) purifies the body and home environment.
4. Prosperity and Wealth It is believed to attract: Financial stability

Success in business

Career growth

5. Emotional and Mental Strength Worshipping Shiva calms the mind and removes fear.
6. Victory Over Obstacles Murugan is the destroyer of obstacles and giver of courage.
7. Blessings for Children Parents observe this vrat for: Protection

Intelligence

Bright future for their children

8. Spiritual Growth Masik Karthigai is ideal for: Meditation

Mantra chanting

Self-purification

Shiva Mantra “Om Namah Shivaya” Murugan Mantra “Om Saravanabhavaya Namah” Karthigai Deepam Mantra “Om Deepajyotir Namostute” Chanting each mantra 108 times is considered highly auspicious.

After the puja: Distribute prasad

Offer food to the poor

Feed cows or birds

Keep at least one lamp burning overnight (optional)

These actions increase the spiritual benefits of the vrat.

Masik Karthigai is a powerful and spiritually uplifting monthly festival dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Murugan. Observing it throughout 2026 brings: Peace and harmony

Protection from negativity

Prosperity and wealth

Emotional stability

Divine blessings

Spiritual upliftment

Lighting lamps on Karthigai Nakshatra removes darkness from one’s life—both externally and internally—making the devotee’s path brighter, purer, and filled with divine grace.