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Kartik Purnima is an important Hindu festival celebrated on the full moon day of the Kartik month. Known by several names, including Dev Diwali, Tripurari Purnima, and Guru Nanak Jayanti, it holds great religious and cultural significance across India.
Kartik Purnima in 2024
In 2024, Kartik Purnima will be celebrated on November 15. According to the Hindu calendar, it is considered an exceptionally auspicious day, ideal for all kinds of sacred rituals and acts of charity.
Significance of Kartik Purnima
Kartik Purnima is considered one of the most auspicious days in Hinduism. It is believed that on this day, Lord Shiva defeated the demon Tripurasura, bringing joy to all the gods. Hence, it is also called Tripurari Purnima. Additionally, this day celebrates Lord Vishnu’s Matsya (fish) avatar. Bathing in holy rivers like the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati on this day is believed to wash away sins and lead to salvation.
Rituals and Traditions of Kartik Purnima
- Holy River Bathing: Bathing in rivers, especially the Ganges, is highly significant on this day. It is believed to cleanse a person of sins and bring divine blessings.
- Lighting Lamps (Deepdaan): Thousands of lamps are lit in homes, temples, and along riverbanks. In Varanasi, this day is celebrated as Dev Diwali, when the ghats of the Ganges are illuminated, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere.
- Charity and Good Deeds: Offering charity on Kartik Purnima is highly valued. People donate food, clothes, and money to the needy, which is believed to bring prosperity and merit.
- Worship of Lord Vishnu and Shiva: Devotees perform special rituals and prayers for both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, offering flowers, incense, sweets, and other offerings in their honor.
- Guru Nanak Jayanti: The Sikh community also celebrates this day as Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s birth anniversary, marking it with grand celebrations, kirtans, langars (community meals), and processions at gurdwaras.
- Fasting and Devotion: Many devotees observe a fast on Kartik Purnima, dedicating the day to prayer, spiritual reflection, and meditation.
Mythological Stories Associated with Kartik Purnima
- Defeat of Tripurasura: According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva defeated the demon Tripurasura on this day. Tripurasura had been terrorizing the gods, and with his defeat, the gods celebrated Lord Shiva’s victory, calling it Tripurari Purnima.
- Dev Diwali: It is believed that on this day, the gods descend to Earth and light lamps on the banks of the Ganges in honor of Lord Shiva and Vishnu. Hence, it is also known as the “Diwali of the Gods.
Kartik Purnima is a festival of purity and devotion that holds a special place in Hinduism. The rituals associated with this day—such as bathing in rivers, lighting lamps, charity, and fasting—are believed to purify the soul and bring blessings. Kartik Purnima is a beautiful reminder of faith, compassion, and the spiritual rewards of sincere devotion.
