This Karthigai Deepam, Let No Pilgrim Go Hungry on the Sacred Path of Arunachala

Why this matters

Maha Karthigai Deepam brings thousands of devotees to Tiruvannamalai, many undertaking the sacred 14-kilometre Girivalam around Arunachala Hill. Through this campaign, 63 Nayanars Charitable Trust seeks support to provide Annadhanam to devotees and sadhus. Contributions will help arrange groceries, vegetables and essential provisions to prepare and serve fresh meals.

A Sacred Journey to Arunachala

As Karthigai Deepam approaches, Tiruvannamalai becomes a place of extraordinary devotion. Thousands travel from different towns, villages and states to worship Lord Arunachaleswarar and witness the Maha Deepam atop Arunachala Hill. For many devotees, Karthigai Deepam is a journey they look forward to throughout the year—a time to offer prayers, fulfil vows and experience the spiritual significance of Arunachala. One of the most important parts of this pilgrimage is Girivalam, the sacred walk of nearly 14 kilometres around Arunachala Hill. The path passes through eight Lingams, each holding a special place in Tiruvannamalai’s spiritual tradition. Devotees of all ages undertake this journey, often walking for hours after travelling from distant places.

Annadhanam — A Meal Offered with Care

After walking long distances, a plate of food and drinking water can offer a pilgrim comfort and strength. Annadhanam has a special place in our traditions: offering food to someone who is hungry is one of the simplest and most meaningful forms of service. For a pilgrim walking around Arunachala, a meal is a moment to rest, regain strength and continue the journey. The spirit of Annadhanam is about coming together to serve others without expecting anything in return.

63 Nayanars Charitable Trust — Continuing the Service

63 Nayanars Charitable Trust is committed to serving devotees and sadhus through Annadhanam and other charitable activities at Tiruvannamalai. Support from well-wishers helps sustain these efforts. For Maha Karthigai Deepam 2026, the trust is preparing to continue this service during one of the most significant occasions in Tiruvannamalai. The arrangements require essential groceries, rice, pulses, vegetables, cooking ingredients and other provisions to prepare fresh meals.

Your Contribution Can Help Serve a Pilgrim

Your contribution will help arrange rice, pulses and essential groceries; fresh vegetables and cooking ingredients; provisions needed to prepare and serve Annadhanam; and drinking water and other essential arrangements for devotees. You do not need to be physically present in Tiruvannamalai to take part. By supporting this campaign, you can be part of the Annadhanam offered to devotees making their journey to Arunachala.

Let This Karthigai Deepam Be a Time of Giving

The light of Maha Deepam brings people together in faith. Along the sacred path of Arunachala, let us also come together through kindness and service. A devotee may travel hundreds of kilometres to reach Tiruvannamalai and walk nearly 14 kilometres around the holy hill. We may not walk alongside every pilgrim, but we can help make the journey a little easier by supporting a meal along the way. This Karthigai Deepam, your support can become someone’s meal. Join 63 Nayanars Charitable Trust in supporting Annadhanam for devotees and sadhus during Maha Karthigai Deepam 2026. May this occasion inspire us to share what we have, serve those in need and keep the spirit of Annadhanam alive. Contribute today and be part of the seva.

Project items

Rice

Dhoor Dal

Cooking Oil

Ghee

Gram Dal

Sugar

Yellow Moong Dal

Grocery Kit