Kartik Mahina: Spiritual Significance and Practices from October 17th to November 15th

The month of Kartik holds immense spiritual significance in Hinduism, celebrated from October 17th to November 15th. Known as one of the holiest months in the Hindu calendar, Kartik is highly revered for its spiritual devotion and purification practices. This period is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, particularly in His form as Damodara, an epithet of Lord Krishna, fostering a deep connection with divine energy.

Rules to Follow During the Month of Kartik

Offering Lamps (Deep Daan) and Nurturing Tulsi: Plant or nurture Tulsi and offer half to one glass of water to Tulsi in the morning. This act is considered as meritorious as donating gold. Sleeping and Celibacy: Sleep on the floor or on a simple mat on a wooden platform, and observe celibacy for the liberation of the soul. Avoid Heavy Foods and Donate Sesame Seeds: Avoid consuming heavy foods like urad dal and masoor dal. Donate sesame seeds. If the rivers are impure, perform a mental bath in the river. Attending the Company of Saints: Attend the company of saints and follow their teachings, aiming for liberation (moksha). Destroying Sins with Amla: Eating under the shade of an Amla tree destroys countless sins accumulated over a year, and bathing with Amla powder brings prosperity and happiness. However, Amla should not be used during eclipses, on Sankranti, or on Sundays. Regular Bathing: If you cannot bathe every day during the month of Kartik, ensure to bathe before sunrise on the last three days (Trayodashi, Chaturdashi, and Purnima). Post-Exposure to Impurities: If you unknowingly eat something impure, chewing Amla, Bael, or sugarcane afterward cleanses the impurity.

Conclusion

In essence, the month of Kartik is a time for intensified devotion, self-discipline, and spiritual practices. Hindus believe that even small acts of devotion during this period bring magnified rewards. The combination of fasting, bathing, lighting lamps, and offering prayers to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva during Kartik helps in purifying one’s karma and bringing the devotee closer to liberation (moksha). By observing these practices, one can cultivate spiritual growth, mental peace, and divine grace during the sacred month of Kartik.