Karthika Masam fervour begins as devotees throng Lord Shiva temples in Chittoor district

People visiting the Kaigal Falls near Baireddipalle in Chittoor district. | Photo Credit: THE HINDU

The start of Karthika Masam has brought devotional fervour to Chittoor district, with Lord Shiva temples witnessing a steady flow of devotees and popular waterfalls turning into destinations for ritual bathing.

The month-long festivities highlight the district’s distinctive cultural identity, where Telugu, Tamil and Kannada traditions blend through shared devotional practices.

Lord Shiva temples across the district and neighbouring areas in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka have been conducting special prayers, abhishekams and devotional programmes. “A unique feature of the month is that devotees visit temples early in the morning to offer prayers and light earthen lamps in the evenings. Many women observe fasts and undertake special worship during the auspicious month,” said Ravi Achari, a priest at a Hanuman temple in Puthalapattu.

The famous Parasurameswara temple at Gudimallam, Mogileeswara temple at Mogili, Srikalasteeswara temple in Srikalahasti, Pallikondeswara Temple at Nagalapuram and several Lord shiva shrines in and around the district experience heavy influx of devotees during this month.

An interesting feature of Karthika Masam in the region is the tradition of taking holy baths at waterfalls and natural water bodies. Talakona, Kailasakona, Sadasiva Kona, Moolakona, Ubbalamadugu, and Kaigal Falls are among the popular destinations visited by devotees during the month.

The tradition of arranging “Vana Bhojanams” (community luncheons in forested areas and near waterfall zones) brings families and friends together. Moreover, Chittoor’s proximity to Tamil Nadu and Karnataka has influenced local temple customs, architecture, and devotional practices.

Published - November 13, 2026 08:00 pm IST