Kartik Purnima is a significant Hindu festival celebrated on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Kartik month (October–November). It holds great religious importance across India and Nepal and is dedicated to various deities like Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, and the Goddess Lakshmi.
🕉️ Spiritual Significance
Kartik Purnima marks the end of the holy month of Kartik, considered the most auspicious month in the Hindu calendar. It is believed that on this day, Lord Vishnu’s divine incarnation Lord Matsya appeared, and Lord Shiva destroyed the demon Tripurasura.
Bathing in sacred rivers on Kartik Purnima is said to purify the soul and wash away sins. The day symbolizes spiritual awakening, purity, and devotion.
🙏 Kartik Purnima Puja Rituals
- Holy Bath (Snan):
- Devotees take a ritual bath in holy rivers or water bodies early morning to purify themselves.
- Lighting of Lamps (Deepdan):
- Many people light oil lamps and place them near rivers, ponds, and temples.
- The festival of Dev Deepawali in Varanasi coincides with Kartik Purnima, when thousands of lamps illuminate the city.
- Worship of Deities:
- Special pujas are performed for Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, and Goddess Lakshmi.
- Devotees chant mantras, sing bhajans, and offer flowers, fruits, sweets, and water.
- Fairs and Processions:
- Various cultural fairs, boat processions, and celebrations take place near riverbanks and temples.
- Charity and Giving:
- Acts of charity and feeding the poor are common on this day.
🌼 Message of Kartik Purnima
Kartik Purnima inspires devotees to seek spiritual growth, purity, and compassion. It encourages lighting the inner lamp of knowledge to dispel ignorance and live a life of righteousness.
