The Significance of Kartik Purnima: A Month of Devotion and Auspicious Acts

On the day of Kartik Purnima, also known as Dev-Diwal, devotees across India engage in a myriad of sacred rituals and celebrations. This significant lunar feast occurs when Lord Krishna and Lord Rama, revered gods in Hinduism, are believed to have won several battles. Additionally, Karthika Masam, the festive month preceding Kartik Purnima, offers a special time to honor various deities and engage in spiritual practices.

Karthika Masam: The Most Auspicious and Sacred Month

Karthika Masam is a month-long celebration that starts just after Deepavali Amavasya. This month is held sacred by both Shaiva and Vaishnava followers, as it marks the worship of Lord Shiva and Lord Maha Vishnu. It initiates on the Suklapournami of Aswayuja. The significance of this month lies in its exalted moon, which resides in the Kritika nakshatra.

Auspicious Kartik Poornima

The full moon day in the month of November is known as Kartik Poornima. The Hunter’s Full Moon, it is named after the 'Kritika' nakshatra, which is a residence for the exalted moon. This full moon holds a unique place due to the moon's exaltation in Kritika nakshatra and the fact that Kritika is ruled by the Sun. This conjunction signifies the ruling of the mind and soul, making it a profoundly auspicious day.

Kritika, known for sharp objects, also symbolizes the need to vanquish inner demons. On this day, it is believed that any inauguration or practice can stabilize the mind. Here are some activities one can undertake:

Bathing in the Holy River

For the spiritually inclined, taking a bath in a holy river such as the Ganga can be a significant ritual. The river's lunar connection enhances its purity, making it an ideal place for aura cleaning. Even those who cannot visit a holy river can perform basic aura cleaning exercises after a bath, or use any stored Ganga water.

Bow to the Sun God

Since Kritika is ruled by the Sun, bowing to the Sun God as it rises and sets is another recommended practice. Offerings of water to the Sun can be made to encapsulate the sun's significance in this month.

Remembering Ancestors

A special day to remember and pray for ancestors, lighting lassus of diya in the evening is a traditional way to honor the deceased. Fire, significant on Kartik Poornima, symbolizes the soul. Lighting lamps on the riverbank, known as Diya Daan, is another memorable ritual.

Pray to Lord Shiva

As Kartik Masam is beloved by supreme souls like Lord Shiva, chanting mantras like 'Om Namah Shivaya' or the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra can help awaken the third eye, denoting Shiva.

Charity

As the moon symbolizes mother, on this auspicious day, charity to the needy is also highly encouraged. This act of giving aligns with the lunar significance of motherhood and giving.

Historical Events and Celebrations

Several ancient events are associated with Kartik Poornima:

Lord Shiva manifested as Tripura Kanta, battling and defeating Tripurasura, making this day Tripura Poornima. Lord Vishnu appeared as the Matsya Avatar, taking the form of a fish. The commemoration of the birth of Guru Nanak Saheb, called Guru Nanak Jayanti, is also celebrated. Jain followers take part in the Shri Shatrunjay Teerth Yatra, a pilgrimage of 216 km to visit the Lord Adinath temple. The famous Pushkar Fair in Rajasthan begins on Prabodhini Ekadashi and extends till Kartik Poornima.

Conclusion

The essence of this auspicious day lies in the connection with the moon, its significant role in spiritual practices, and the various rituals it brings. This day offers an opportunity for deep reflection, strengthening of one's mind, and a connection with the divine. As you observe Kartik Purnima, may your soul and mind be uplifted and strengthened.