Indian Astrology says that the Malayalam month of Karkidakam (July-August) belongs to the moon. Based on this premise, sun is considered the king as well as Siva, while the moon is the queen and Parvathy. So, Karkidakam is also a month dedicated to the Goddess.
Households conduct rituals like Ganapathy Homam and Bhagavathy Seva during this month. The rites are offered every day in temples. People who have inconvenience in conducting these prayers at home can do so at a nearby temple. It is believed that these rituals ward off troubles and invite prosperity.
During the month, Ramayana recital is done at temples and houses. The Karkidaka Vavu day is dedicated to the ancestors. Offering of the bali ritual is considered auspicious on this day.
Arrangements for the ritual are made at Aluva Siva temple, Thirunelli, Varkala and all other temples dedicated to Siva.
Karkidakam month is ideal for Ayurveda and beauty enhancement treatments. That the sunlight is not intense and it rains most of the time helps.
Nowadays, it has become a trend even among the youth to consume Karkidaka Kanji (a mix of rice gruel and Ayurvedic ingredients). This is a preparation based on the medicinal components suggested by Ayurveda and is very beneficial to health.
Making tubers like yam, colocasia and their leaves a part of the diet during Karkidakam is also good for health. The itching caused by colocasia will be less during this month. However, according to Ayurveda, drumstick leaves should be avoided.
(Author’s contact details: Dr PB Rajesh, Rama Nivas, Poovathumparambil, Near ESI dispensary, Eloor East, Udyogamandal PO, Ernakulam – 683501. Email: rajeshastro1963@gmail.com Phone: 9846033337, 0484 2546421.
