Kartik Purnima 2023: Significance and Celebrations
Significance of Kartik Purnima: Celebrating the Day on November 27, 2023
Kartik Maas: A Month of Spiritual Significance
Kartik Maas, a revered month in Hindu traditions, is a time of deep devotion. This sacred period is dedicated to the worship of Lord Brahma, Lord Shiva, Lord Angira, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Sun. It commences with the entry of the Sun into the zodiac sign Libra. In terms of the Gregorian calendar, Kartik Maas typically spans from October to November. The most prominent rituals during this month are Kartik snan (holy baths) and Puja. In 2023, Kartik Purnima is set to grace us on November 27th.
A Universal Celebration
Kartik Poornima transcends religious boundaries and is celebrated globally. It holds particular significance for various religious and spiritual communities:
Sikhism
For Sikhs, this day marks the birthday of Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism, and is celebrated with great zeal and devotion.
Jainism
Followers of Jainism observe Kartik Poornima as the Jain light festival. They pay homage to Lord Mahavira and light lamps under the moonlit sky. Devotees often embark on a pilgrimage to Palitana, a sacred Jain site. Palitana remains open for devotees on this day, after being closed during the four months of monsoon.
Hinduism's Profound Significance
Kartik Poornima holds a special place in Hinduism. Several aspects contribute to its significance:
The End of Chaturmas
As per Shastras, Kartik Poornima marks the conclusion of Chaturmas, and it symbolizes the commencement of Lord Vishnu's slumber. Observing fasts during the Kartik month is believed to be a path to salvation in Kalyug.
Matsya Avatar
On this day, Lord Vishnu took the form of Matsya (the fish incarnation) to rescue Manu, the first man, from a primordial flood that threatened to destroy the universe. Manu's name "manav" or "manushya" in Sanskrit is derived from his significance. Worshiping Lord Vishnu on this day is believed to bring good fortune.
Dev Diwali
Kartik Poornima is also known as Dev Diwali or Deva-Deepawali, signifying the festival of lights for the gods. It's believed that on this day, gods descend to Earth and reside in the sacred rivers. Taking a bath during Karthik Purnima snan purifies the mind, body, and soul, removing negative influences and replacing them with compassion, love, kindness, generosity, and truth.
Ancestral Tribute
This day also involves paying tribute to our ancestors by taking a holy dip in pilgrimage places, especially at Pushkar and Varanasi.
Vrinda's Birthday
Kartik Purnima is the birthday of Vrinda, the embodiment of the Tulsi plant. It's also the last day for performing Tulsi Vivah.
Lord Kartikeya's Birth
Lord Kartikeya, the chief of all gods, is believed to have been born on this auspicious day.
Lord Krishna's Worship
It's the day when Lord Krishna worshipped Radha, deepening the significance of this day for Krishna devotees.
Seasonal Transition
Kartik Purnima marks the transition from Sharad Ritu to Hemant Ritu, signifying the arrival of winter in India.
Panchaka Worship
The last five days of Kartik Maas, known as Panchaka, are devoted to the worship of Amla, Tulsi, sunbathing, and Lord Shiva.
The Triumph of Lord Shiva
Kartik Purnima celebrates the power of Lord Shiva, who is believed to have vanquished the demon Tripura on this day. This is why it's also known as Tripuri Poornima or Tripurari Poornima. The legend tells the tale of Lord Shiva's dance of destruction, "Tandava," and how he ended the tyranny of the three demon sons of Tarakasur.
A Day Equivalent to 100 Ashwamedha Yagyas
Engaging in pious acts such as puja, snan (bathing), or daan (charity) on Kartik Purnima is considered to be as meritorious as performing 100 Ashwamedha Yagyas.
Celebrate Kartik Purnima in 2023
To make the most of the spiritual significance of Kartik Purnima, you can book your Online Individual Puja for Kartik Purnima on VisionAstro.com and VisionAstro App. With live telecasts of the ceremonies, you can join in the celebrations from anywhere. For further details, don't hesitate to contact VisionAstro Support.