Kartik - The Holiest Month For Hindus
Posted on October 15, 2008 in Festivals by naveen
The month of Karthika is the eighth and most special month for Hindus. It is considered as holiest month for Hindus. Karthika masam is the most favorite month for Lord Shiva. During this month devotees worship Lord Shiva with utmost devotion. Many religious festivals are celebrated duringthe month of Karthik.
When is Karteeka Masam ?
Usually, Karteeka masa starts just the day after Diwali (Margashira Amavasya). In 2008, Karteeka masam starts from 29th October, Wednesday and ends on 27th November, Thursday.
Legends of Kartik Month :
The holiness or mahatmya of Kartik month has been descriptively dealt with in the Padma Puran’s Uttar Khanda. Explaining about salvation to King Dilip, sage Vashishta had reffered to Kartik mahatmya (holiness of Kartik month) by giving several legends related to the month.
Once Satyabhama wanted to know about the holiness of Kartik month. As a reply, Lord Krishna explains her the story of demon Sankha Asura. Shankha Asura (Conch Shell demon) has stolen the Vedas and taken away into the sea.
To kill and get the Vedas back, Lord Sri Maha Vishnu has incarnated as a fish (Matsya Avatar) and killed the Conch Shell demon and restored the Vedas. It is said that the incarnation of Matsya Avatar has taken place on the 11th day of month kartik.
Rituals and Customs - During Kartik Month :
During the Karthika masam, women wake up early in the morning and have ceremonial or spiritual bath and perform ‘Lord Shiva Puja’. Everyday women decorate their house entrances with lighting diyas. Devotees believe that performing or observing fast and pujas during the month of Kartik can bring them salvation (Moksha) after their death.
The month of Karthika is very popular for ‘Samundar Snaan’ (Ceremonial Sea bath – Samudra Snanam) and for ‘Vanabhojanams’ (Garden parties).
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