Kartik Poornima, also known as Tripuri Poornima, is a sacred occasion marked by diverse cultural and religious celebrations. This full moon day carries profound significance across various traditions, weaving together a rich tapestry of history, mythology, and spiritual observances.
Mythical Background
Legend has it that Tripurasura, a demon with impenetrable fortresses and three cities, sought a boon from Lord Brahma to vanquish his fears. As the gods found themselves powerless against Tripurasura, they turned to Lord Shankar. In a divine intervention on Kartik Poornima, Shankar defeated Tripurasura, setting fire to his three cities. This event, known as Tripurari Poornima, is commemorated by lighting lamps both inside and outside buildings, temples, and by donating lamps to rivers as an act of worship.
Lights (Deep):
Devotees express their devotion by presenting various foods to the divine in a ritual known as Annakot. The evening is adorned with Deepotsav, where candles illuminate stone idols in temples, and Tripura vata is lit in front of Lord Shankara.
Dev Diwali:
Kartik Purnima coincides with the grand celebration of Dev Diwali, a spectacular event observed on November 26. Varanasi, with its extravagant festivities, takes center stage during this celebration. Jain devotees also refer to Kartik Purnima as the “Jain Festival of Light,” adding another layer of cultural diversity to the occasion.
Date & Time:
This year, the fast of Tripuri/Kartik Poornima is scheduled for November 27, 2023. The auspicious Tithi begins on November 26, 2023, at 3:53 PM, and concludes on November 27, 2023, at 2:45 PM.
Rituals:
The day commences with devotees rising early for the holy bath ritual at Ganga Ghats. Moonrise witnesses the worship of Shiva, Santati, Priti, Anusuya, and Kshama. Devotees also observe the Satyanarayan fast, plan hawans or yagyas, and offer prayers to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. Deep daan near the Ganga Ghats, chanting mantras, and reading sacred texts like the Bhagavad Gita and the Ramayana are considered auspicious. The day concludes with offering Arghya to the Moon in the evening.
As Kartik Poornima dawns, let us partake in the spiritual tapestry that unites diverse communities in the celebration of light, devotion, and cultural richness.
