Kartik Maas (month) begins on October 18 this year. It is the eighth month of the Hindu calendar, and it is named after Lord Kartikeya, the deity associated with this month. Kartik holds special significance in Hinduism, as it marks the last month of Chaturmas, a four-month period. This month features the celebration of Dev Uthani Ekadashi, when Lord Vishnu awakens from his four-month slumber. With his awakening, all auspicious and sacred activities can resume. During Kartik, worshipping Lord Vishnu, bathing in sacred rivers, and engaging in charitable acts are especially important. Several major festivals are celebrated in Kartik, including Karwa Chauth, Dhanteras, Narak Chaturdashi, Diwali, Bhai Dooj, Chhath, Dev Uthani Ekadashi, and Tulsi Vivah. Throughout Kartik, there is a special emphasis on lighting lamps (Deep Daan).
Duration of Kartik Maas
According to the Vedic calendar, the month of Kartik, dedicated to bathing, meditation, and lighting lamps, starts from the Pratipada of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) and continues until Kartik Purnima (full moon). After that, the remaining months of the year are Margashirsha, Paush, and Phalgun. The Chaitra month is the first month of the Hindi calendar. This year, Kartik will begin on October 18 and end on November 15.
Significance of Kartik Maas
Kartik is a special month for worship, rituals, meditation, and auspicious deeds. It marks the end of Chaturmas. During this time, Lord Vishnu awakens from his four-month yogic slumber. The day Lord Hari awakens is known as Dev Uthani Ekadashi. The worship of Lord Vishnu and Mother Tulsi, bathing in the Ganges, and lighting lamps hold special importance during Kartik. Bathing and donating in this month lead to multiplied auspicious results. Astrologically, the sun, who brings light to all, resides in its debilitation sign, Libra, during this month, causing a decrease in light and an increase in negative energy. Lighting lamps during this time helps to reduce negativity and enhance positive energy. According to the Puranas, Lord Vishnu resides in the waters as Narayan during this month. Therefore, bathing in rivers or ponds regularly before sunrise from Kartik Krishna Pratipada to Kartik Purnima bestows eternal merit. Scriptures state that those who recite the Bhagavad Gita daily during Kartik receive limitless blessings.
What to Do During Kartik Maas
- Daily bathing in the Ganges, giving donations, and lighting lamps during Kartik leads to significant blessings.
- One should perform the worship of Tulsi every morning and evening with the proper rituals and offer lamps.
- It is important to light lamps at the banks of holy rivers or ponds during Kartik month.
- Reciting the Bhagavad Gita daily during Kartik leads to infinite blessings.
- Lord Krishna holds Kartik month dearer than all others.
- Those who engage in food donations or light lamps during this month will also earn the blessings of Lord Kubera.
Disclaimer: This article is based on popular beliefs. Times Now is not responsible for the accuracy or completeness of the information and facts provided here.
