Karthika Deepam, also known as Karthikai Vilakkidu or Thrikarthika, is an important Hindu festival of lights. The festival is celebrated by Hindus all over the world, with special significance in Tamil Nadu, Sri Lanka and Kerala. Karthika Deepam is celebrated with great importance at Thiruvannamalai. Special light is lit at the top of the hill at Thiruvannamalai which is the abode of Lord Shiva,