Kartik Poornima is one of the most significant festivals in the Hindu calendar, celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm across India. Occurring in the month of Kartik (October-November), this day is not only important for its religious significance but also for its cultural and spiritual rituals. Kartik Poornima 2024 falls on Friday, 15th November. In this blog, we will explore the auspicious timings, the spiritual significance of Kartik Poornima, and the various rituals that devotees perform on this day.
Auspicious Timings for Kartik Poornima 2024
Timing is essential when performing any religious rituals, and Kartik Poornima is no different. The full moon day or Poornima Tithi begins at 6:19 AM on November 15, 2024, and ends at 2:58 AM on November 16, 2024. The period of Poornima is considered highly auspicious for performing sacred rituals and prayers. The Tithi, or the time frame when the Poornima or full moon occurs, is as follows:
Purnima Tithi Begins: 06:19 AM on 15th November 2024
Purnima Tithi Ends: at 02:58 AM on 16th November 2024
Devotees should take note of these timings to maximize the spiritual benefits of their rituals and prayers. Early morning and evening times are especially revered for worship and taking a holy dip in sacred rivers.
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The Significance of Kartik Poornima 2024
Kartik Poornima 2024 holds special importance in Hindu mythology and religious practices. It marks the end of the holy Kartik month, considered the most auspicious for observing fasts, performing charitable acts, and taking holy baths in sacred rivers like the Ganges, Yamuna, and Godavari. The day also has several important legends associated with it:
- The Birth of Lord Kartikeya: It is believed that Kartik Poornima marks the birth of Lord Kartikeya, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Lord Kartikeya is regarded as the god of war and victory. His birth is celebrated with joy, especially in South India, where special prayers are offered in temples dedicated to him.
- Tripuri Poornima: Another significant event associated with this day is the victory of Lord Shiva over the demon Tripurasura. According to Hindu mythology, Shiva destroyed the three cities (Tripura) of the demons, bringing peace and righteousness back to the universe. Hence, Kartik Poornima is also known as Tripuri Poornima, and it symbolizes the triumph of good over evil.
- Tulsi Vivah Completion: Kartik Poornima also marks the conclusion of the Tulsi Vivah, a ceremonial marriage of the Tulsi plant (holy basil) to Lord Vishnu. This event signifies the divine union of nature and divinity, and it is widely celebrated by households and temples across the country.
- Significance in Jainism: For followers of Jainism, Kartik Poornima is a sacred day, as it commemorates the final liberation (Nirvana) of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara.
Kartik Poornima 2024 Puja Vidhi
The Kartik Poornima Puja Vidhi is simple yet deeply spiritual, involving various steps to honor Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. Here is a brief outline:
- Morning Bath: Begin the day by taking a holy bath at dawn, preferably in a sacred river or at home, to purify the mind and body.
- Temple Visit: Offer prayers at a nearby temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, or Lord Kartikeya. If visiting is not possible, perform the puja at home.
- Lighting of Diyas: Light oil lamps (diyas) in front of deities and around the home to invite divine blessings.
- Offering Flowers and Fruits: Offer fresh flowers, fruits, and Tulsi leaves to Lord Vishnu or Lord Shiva.
- Chanting Mantras: Recite sacred mantras, such as the Vishnu Sahasranama or Om Namah Shivaya, to invoke divine grace.
- Aarti and Prasad: Conclude the puja with an aarti, and distribute prasad (offering) to family members and neighbors.
Following this Kartik Poornima Puja Vidhi brings peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth to devotees.
Rituals and Traditions of Kartik Poornima 2024
Kartik Poornima 2024 is celebrated with various rituals that carry deep religious and spiritual meaning. Here are the key rituals observed during Kartik Poornima 2024:
- Holy Bath in Sacred Rivers Taking a dip in sacred rivers like the Ganga, Yamuna, and Godavari is one of the most important rituals. It is believed that bathing in these holy waters on Kartik Poornima purifies the soul and removes sins. Those unable to visit the rivers can bathe at home, as the water is considered blessed on this day.
- Lighting of Diyas (Oil Lamps) Devotees light earthen lamps to honor Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. Thousands of diyas adorn homes, temples, and riverbanks, symbolizing the victory of good over evil and the removal of ignorance through spiritual knowledge.
- Charity and Donations Kartik Poornima 2024 is an ideal day for charity. Offering food, clothes, and donations to the needy and temples brings immense spiritual benefits. Feeding Brahmins and animals is also a common practice.
- Special Pujas and Aartis Temples organize special prayers and aartis for Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. Many devotees observe fasting and break it with prasadam after offering prayers for prosperity and well-being.
- Floating Lamps in Rivers (Deep Daan) In the evening, devotees release small lamps into rivers in the ritual known as Deep Daan. This act symbolizes surrendering ego and desires to the divine, seeking peace, and enlightenment.
Kartik Poornima 2024 is a day filled with religious devotion, spiritual reflection, and community celebration. From taking a holy dip in sacred rivers to lighting diyas and performing charitable acts, this day offers devotees an opportunity to cleanse their minds, body, and soul. By following the rituals and observing the significance of Kartik Poornima, devotees can experience spiritual elevation and inner peace.