Vaikasi Visakam is one of the most prominent Tamil festivals, predominantly celebrated in South India. This auspicious day falls during the Visakam Nakshatra, a specific lunar mansion in Hindu astrology. Devotees observe a fast and offer prayers to Lord Murugan, who is revered as the god of war and the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The festival commemorates the birth anniversary of Lord Murugan, also known as Kartikeya in North India.
Vaikasi Visakam 2026: Date and Time
According to the Tamil calendar, Vaikasi Visakam is observed during the month of Vaikasi. In 2026, the festival will be celebrated on the Purnima tithi (full moon day), which falls on May 30. The Visakam Nakshatram begins on May 29, 2026, at 10:38 AM and ends on May 30, 2026, at 1:20 PM. Devotees consider this period highly auspicious for performing rituals and seeking blessings.
Vaikasi Visakam 2026: Significance
The scriptures highlight Vaikasi Visakam as one of the most significant festivals in South India. It marks the birth of Lord Murugan, who was born to defeat the demon Tarkasura. Lord Murugan is depicted with six faces and rides a peacock, symbolizing courage and fearlessness. He is the chief commander of the divine army and offers protection to devotees who worship him with devotion and purity. In North India, he is worshipped as Kartikeya, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
Vaikasi Visakam 2026: How It Is Celebrated
The festival is celebrated with great grandeur and enthusiasm across South India. Devotees decorate their homes with rangolis, flowers, and torans (door hangings). They prepare a variety of dishes to offer to Lord Kartikeya. The day symbolizes the victory of good over evil. People visit temples and offer milk, coconuts, and sweets to Lord Murugan, seeking his blessings for strength and prosperity. Special prayers and processions are organized in many temples, drawing large crowds of devotees.
