Ramayanam month commences: Temples and homes set to engage in Karkidakam traditions

Kozhikode: The month of Karkidakam, the last month in the Malayalam almanack which is known for its torrents and challenges, has arrived. For Malayalis, Karkidakam is the month of Ramayana, a time to overcome difficulties with spiritual strength. The month is observed this year from July 16 to August 16.

According to Hindu belief, the 'Dakshinayana' period begins in the month of Karkidakam. It is believed to be the night of the gods. As per the traditional belief, chanting prayers in this period will bring prosperity.

Ramayana stories will be prominently heard within the walls of temples and homes. Devotees, especially elders, recite ‘Adhyathma Ramayana’ authored by medieval devotional poet Thunchath Ramanujan Ezhuthachan. Ramayanam reading is set in such a way that it begins on the first day of Karkidakam and concludes on the last day, with recitations in the morning and evening at temples and many homes. This is the period for most Hindus to lead a spiritual life with prayers and offerings to Lord Rama to counter the adversities in life.

In connection with Ramayana month, all temples will start prayers with Ganapathi pooja in the early morning. Various special prayers will be held in temples under devotees’ organisations and temple committees. Spiritual classes and discourses on Ramayana by experts would be conducted in various temples, including at the famed Sree Krishna Temple in Guruvayur till the end of the month.

Some places also conduct ‘Sapthaham’ and ‘Navaham’ rituals along with spiritual lectures. The Amavasi (new moon) day in Karkidakam is dedicated to Balitarpanam (offerings for the dead).

Karkidakam is also favoured by many for Ayurvedic treatments. Many people choose this month to consume medicinal porridges for health and body rejuvenation.The tradition of ‘Karkidaka Chikitsa’ has been practised for many centuries in Kerala. Due to intense rainfall during this time, traditional monsoon food includes medicinal porridges like Karkidaka Kanji / Oushadha kanji. These medicated porridges are extremely light, carminative and easy to digest.

Karkidakam not only marks a period of devotion and rejuvenation for Malayalis, it is also a time to embrace the cultural tradition of Kerala through physical and emotional well-being amidst the monsoon's influence.