Why do we celebrate Kartik Purnima: From sacred dips to glowing diyas

India is all about celebrations, and today, November 15, we’re diving into Kartik Purnima, coinciding with Guru Nanak Jayanti. With festivities lining up every month, today brings us two spiritually loaded occasions, and while we may know the significance of Guru Nanak Jayanti, let’s get to know what Kartik Purnima is all about. Surprisingly, this is no rare calendar coincidence—it happens every year!

Why do we celebrate Kartik Purnima?

So, what’s the buzz with Kartik Purnima? Known by Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains as one of the most spiritually powerful days, this festival falls on the full moon (Purnima) in Kartik, the holiest month of the Hindu calendar. Also called Tripuri Purnima or Tripurari Purnima, the day celebrates Lord Shiva’s grand win over the demon Tripurasura, a monumental event marked by lighting diyas and colourful rituals. But wait—there’s more! Kartik Purnima also honours Lord Vishnu’s first appearance as Matsya, the fish incarnation. Basically, this day packs a divine double punch.

Why do devotees take holy baths on Kartik Purnima?

Legend has it that on this day, deities descended from the heavens and blessed the earth’s sacred rivers, which explains why devotees flock to holy rivers for a ritual bath. It is believed that the bath purifies the soul and grants divine blessings. And if you’re wondering what makes this year extra special, it’s when Kartik Purnima aligns with Nakshatra Krittika, marking it as Maha Kartik, an even more auspicious occurrence.

Kartik Purnima significance

But it’s not just a one-day affair—Kartik Purnima’s magic begins five days earlier with Prabodhani Ekadashi, symbolising the “awakening” of the gods after a four-month cosmic slumber. This day also concludes Chaturmas, the four holy months when Lord Vishnu “sleeps,” reawakening to bless his devotees.

What to do on Kartik Purnima?

1. Sacred dips: Devotees start the day with a dip in the Ganges or another holy river, symbolising the blessings from the deities who, as legends say, come down to earth on this special day.

2. Light it up: Rows of diyas light up homes and temples, celebrating Lord Vishnu’s return from exile and honouring Lord Shiva’s victorious moment.

3. Shiva processions: Devotees march in processions carrying idols of Lord Shiva, worshipping before immersing them in water.

4. Temple offerings: Deities are honoured with “Annakutta,” a special Prasad that devotees relish after prayers.

5. Sunrise & moonrise worship: Whether at dawn or dusk, riverside prayers honouring Lord Shiva are key rituals for many.

6. Charity and feasting: From “Bhandara” (mass feeding) to “Anna Daan” (food donations), the day’s rituals are geared toward securing blessings and prosperity.

All in all, Kartik Purnima’s blend of mythology, faith, and rituals makes it one of the most vibrant days in the Indian festive calendar, offering everything from spiritual connections to lively traditions.