Have you ever noticed how rows of glowing oil lamps appear in homes and temples every month on a particular lunar day, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness? These sacred occasions are known as Karthigai Nakshatra days, deeply revered in Shaivite tradition and especially significant for devotees of Lord Shiva and Lord Muruga.
In this detailed guide, we present the complete list of 2026 Karthigai Nakshatra dates, calculated according to traditional Panchang principles with special relevance to Ujjain—the eternal city of Mahakal. Whether you observe Masik Karthigai every month or prepare for the grand Karthigai Deepam festival, this article will serve as your authoritative reference.
What Are Karthigai Nakshatra Days?
Karthigai Nakshatra days occur when the Moon transits through Krittika Nakshatra, the third lunar mansion in Vedic astrology. Ruled by Agni (the fire principle), this nakshatra represents purification, illumination, and the destruction of ignorance.
Spiritually, Krittika is associated with:
- Lord Shiva, as the eternal source of divine light
- Lord Kartikeya (Muruga), who was nurtured by the six Krittikas
On these days, devotees light oil or ghee lamps, perform Shiva puja, chant sacred mantras, and seek inner clarity and protection from negative energies.
Spiritual Significance of Masik Karthigai
Masik Karthigai is observed every month on Krittika Nakshatra. While the rituals are simple, the symbolism is profound. Lighting a lamp on this day represents:
- Awakening of inner consciousness
- Removal of spiritual darkness
- Alignment with Shiva’s Jyoti (divine flame)
For devotees in Ujjain, the energy of these days resonates deeply with the presence of the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, where Shiva is worshipped as Kala-Swaroopa, the lord beyond time.
2026 Karthigai Nakshatra Dates (Ujjain, India)
Below is the authoritative list of Masik Karthigai days for 2026, aligned with sunrise-based Panchang calculations for Ujjain:
| No. | Date | Day | Festival / Occasion |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | January 27, 2026 | Tuesday | Masik Karthigai |
| 2 | February 23, 2026 | Monday | Masik Karthigai |
| 3 | March 23, 2026 | Monday | Masik Karthigai |
| 4 | April 19, 2026 | Sunday | Masik Karthigai |
| 5 | May 16, 2026 | Saturday | Masik Karthigai |
| 6 | June 13, 2026 | Saturday | Masik Karthigai |
| 7 | July 10, 2026 | Friday | Masik Karthigai |
| 8 | August 7, 2026 | Friday | Masik Karthigai |
| 9 | September 3, 2026 | Thursday | Masik Karthigai |
| 10 | September 30, 2026 | Wednesday | Masik Karthigai |
| 11 | October 27, 2026 | Tuesday | Masik Karthigai |
| 12 | November 24, 2026 | Tuesday | Karthigai Deepam |
| 13 | December 21, 2026 | Monday | Masik Karthigai |
Let me know if you’d like Tamil month names or star (Krittika) details added as well.
Tomorrow’s Importance: January 27, 2026
January 27, 2026, marks the first Masik Karthigai of the year. It is an ideal day to begin regular observance by:
- Lighting a single oil lamp at sunset
- Chanting Om Namah Shivaya
- Meditating on Shiva as Jyotirlinga
For Ujjain devotees, this day carries added spiritual gravity due to Mahakal’s timeless presence.
Karthigai Deepam 2026: The Festival of the Infinite Flame
The most sacred Karthigai observance in 2026 falls on November 24 (Tuesday), celebrated as Karthigai Deepam.
According to Shaivite tradition, on this night Lord Shiva manifested as an endless pillar of fire, establishing His supreme, formless nature beyond Brahma and Vishnu. This divine event is ritually commemorated at Arunachaleswara Temple, where a massive flame (Mahadeepam) is lit atop Arunachala Hill, visible for miles.
How to Observe Karthigai Nakshatra Properly
Traditional observances include:
- Cleaning the home and lighting lamps in the evening
- Using clay lamps with sesame oil or ghee
- Facing east or placing lamps near Shiva symbols
- Observing a light fast or sattvic diet
- Praying for wisdom, protection, and spiritual clarity
These simple acts are believed to invite peace, prosperity, and divine guidance.
The 2026 Karthigai Nakshatra days offer monthly moments to reconnect with divine light and spiritual awareness, culminating in the majestic Karthigai Deepam on November 24. For devotees in Ujjain and beyond, these observances echo Shiva’s eternal presence as the flame that never fades.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.When is Karthigai Deepam in 2026?
Karthigai Deepam will be celebrated on November 24, 2026 (Tuesday).
2.Is Masik Karthigai observed every month?
Yes, it occurs every month when the Moon transits Krittika Nakshatra.
3.Why is fire worship important on Karthigai days?
Fire represents Agni and Shiva’s Jyoti—symbolizing purification and divine consciousness.
4.Is Karthigai Nakshatra important outside Tamil Nadu?
Yes, Shaivites across India, including Ujjain, observe it with deep reverence.
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