Karthika Pournami, celebrated on the full moon day (Pournami) of the Hindu month of Kartika (typically November-December), holds great spiritual significance in Hinduism, as well as in Jain and Sikh traditions. This auspicious day is associated with various legends, deities, and customs, each reflecting the essence of devotion, purification, and enlightenment. Here’s a closer look at its significance:
1. Celebration of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu
- Shiva Worship: Karthika Pournami is believed to be the day when Lord Shiva destroyed the demon Tripurasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. To commemorate this, devotees offer prayers and light lamps (deepas) for Shiva, particularly in temples and near sacred rivers.
- Vishnu Worship: In some traditions, it is also considered an auspicious day for Vishnu devotees. Devotees worship Lord Vishnu by lighting lamps, singing bhajans, and observing fasts. It is a way to seek divine blessings and enlightenment.
2. Kartik Snan (Holy Bathing Ritual)
- Devotees bathe in holy rivers at sunrise, as it is believed that the Kartik Snan washes away sins and aids spiritual growth. This ritual is popular in places like Varanasi, Haridwar, and Rameswaram, where thousands gather to take part in the ceremonial bathing.
3. Lighting Lamps (Deepa Daan)
- Lighting lamps on Karthika Pournami is a significant ritual, symbolizing the dispelling of darkness (ignorance) with the light of knowledge. Homes, temples, and riversides are adorned with rows of lamps. It’s believed that offering deepa (lamps) can lead to liberation from the cycle of rebirth and bestow prosperity.
4. Karthika Deepam Festival
- In Tamil Nadu, this day is celebrated with the Karthika Deepam festival, especially in the Arunachaleswarar Temple in Tiruvannamalai, where a huge fire lamp is lit atop the Annamalai Hills to honor Lord Shiva. Devotees believe that Lord Shiva appeared as an endless pillar of light at this place, and lighting the Karthika Deepam symbolizes his divine presence.
5. Sikh and Jain Connections
- Sikhism: Karthika Pournami also marks the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism. Sikhs commemorate the day with prayer, kirtans, and langars (community meals), celebrating his teachings of equality, compassion, and devotion.
- Jainism: For Jains, Karthika Pournami has special importance as they observe this day as an occasion to seek forgiveness, pray, and practice charity.
6. Environmental Significance
- Many Hindus also use this day to honor nature, fasting and avoiding non-vegetarian food throughout Kartika month, and showing respect to rivers, plants, and animals. This is seen as a way to practice gratitude and awareness of nature’s role in spiritual and physical well-being.
Karthika Pournami thus symbolizes devotion, light, and divine connection. It is a time for introspection, rituals, charity, and seeking blessings, making it one of the most cherished and vibrant full moon festivals in India.
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