Kartika Purnima, one of the most auspicious days in the Hindu lunar calendar, is celebrated on the full moon day (Purnima) in the month of Kartika (October-November). This festival holds immense religious, cultural, and historical significance for Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs. In 2024, Kartika Purnima will be observed on November 15th.
Religious Significance
Kartika Purnima is considered highly auspicious due to its association with various deities and events in Hindu mythology. It marks the culmination of the holy month of Kartika, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. The day is believed to be the day when Lord Vishnu incarnated as Matsya (the fish) to save the sacred Vedas from the demon Hayagriva. It is also associated with Lord Shiva’s triumph over the demon Tripurasura, earning it the name “Tripuri Purnima.”
For Jains, Kartika Purnima marks the day when Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, attained Nirvana. It is also celebrated as Dev Diwali (the festival of lights for the gods) in the city of Varanasi, where the ghats are illuminated with thousands of diyas (lamps).
Cultural Significance
Kartika Purnima also has cultural importance, as it marks the beginning of several fairs and festivals. The most notable among them is the Pushkar Fair in Rajasthan, one of the largest camel and livestock fairs in the world. The festival is also celebrated with grandeur in Odisha as Boita Bandana, commemorating the ancient maritime history of the state.
Celebrations and Rituals
- Holy Baths: One of the most important rituals of Kartika Purnima is taking a holy dip in sacred rivers, lakes, or ponds at dawn. This act is believed to purify the soul and wash away sins. Major pilgrimage sites like Varanasi, Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Pushkar see a large influx of devotees on this day.
- Lighting Diyas: Devotees light earthen lamps (diyas) at temples, riverbanks, and homes to honor the gods and bring prosperity. The sight of thousands of diyas illuminating the ghats of Varanasi is particularly mesmerizing.
- Temple Visits and Prayers: Devotees visit temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, and other deities. Special prayers and aartis (rituals of worship) are performed, and offerings of flowers, fruits, and sweets are made.
- Boita Bandana: In Odisha, people float small boats made of banana peels, paper, or leaves with lamps, betel leaves, flowers, and coins in water bodies. This ritual, known as Boita Bandana, commemorates the maritime history and the voyages of ancient traders.
- Fasting and Feasting: Many devotees observe a fast from sunrise to moonrise, breaking it only after sighting the full moon. Special festive meals are prepared and shared with family and friends.
- Kartik Snan and Daan: Performing the Kartik Snan (holy bath) and giving alms (daan) are considered highly meritorious. Devotees donate food, clothes, and money to the needy.
Regional Variations
- Pushkar Fair: The Pushkar Fair in Rajasthan is an integral part of Kartika Purnima celebrations. It includes camel and cattle trading, cultural performances, music, dance, and religious rituals. The highlight is taking a holy dip in the Pushkar Lake and visiting the Brahma Temple.
- Dev Diwali in Varanasi: Known as Dev Diwali, the ghats of Varanasi come alive with millions of lamps. The event features Ganga Aarti, boat rides, and cultural performances.
- Boita Bandana in Odisha: Celebrated with great enthusiasm, Boita Bandana involves the ritualistic floating of boats and is accompanied by fairs, cultural programs, and processions.
Historical Significance
Kartika Purnima has historical roots in India’s ancient maritime trade. The festival celebrates the bravery and enterprise of ancient traders who set sail to distant lands like Bali, Java, Sumatra, and Sri Lanka. This historical connection is most prominently observed in Odisha, where the tradition of Boita Bandana reflects the state’s rich maritime heritage.
Kartika Purnima 2024
Kartik Purnima on Friday, November 15, 2024
Purnima Tithi Begins – 06:19 AM on Nov 15, 2024
Purnima Tithi Ends – 02:58 AM on Nov 16, 2024
Conclusion
Kartika Purnima is a vibrant tapestry of religious devotion, cultural heritage, and historical significance. Whether it’s the illuminated ghats of Varanasi, the bustling Pushkar Fair, or the serene rituals of Boita Bandana, the festival brings people together in joyous celebration and reverence. As we prepare to observe Kartika Purnima in 2024, let’s embrace the spirit of devotion, gratitude, and unity that this auspicious day embodies. May the blessings of the divine bring peace, prosperity, and happiness to all!