Kartik is the eighth lunar month of the Hindu and Kartik Poornima is the full moon day of the month of Kartik. Kartik Poornima 2009 falls on 2nd November 2009.

Kartik month is observed as the holiest month of Hindus. Fifteenth day of the Kartik month is called Kartik Poornima. It is observed as the most important day of the month. Guru Nanak Jayanti, Jain light festival, Tulsi Vivah, Ganga Snan and Dev Diwali are observed on this same day: Kartik Poornima.

Legends of Kartik Poornima: Kartik Poornima is also celebrated as Tripura Poornima for the legend of Lord Shiva killing the demon Tripurasura on this day.

Vedas describe the story of demon Tripuri ot Tripurasura who underwent severe austerities and penances for one lakh years in the city of Prayag. With his extraordinary power gained he became the ruler of heaven, earth and hell. He performed even more austerities and pleased Lord Brahma. When Brahma asked him the boon, he asked that he should not meet death from woman, evil spirit or any disease. Brahma was obliged to grant the boon.

Thinking himself as the Lord of all, demon Tripuri started harrassing everyone. He attacked all demigods and their abodes. Seeing this havoc all devatas went to Lord Shiva and pleaded him to protect them from the demon.

Lord Shiva called for Tripuri and burned his kingdom and his possesions. Lord shiva and Tripuri fought for several years and finally Lord Shiva killed the demon Tripuri. Since the day happened to be Kartik Poornima, the day is also called as Tripuri Poornima.

Kartik Poornima in Orissa:

Kartik poornima is celebrated in the most pompous way in Orissa. World famous Bali Yatra takes place on the banks of river Mahanadi in Cuttack city of Orissa. This yatra is celebrated to commemorate the past voyages organized by kings of Orissa to the islands of Bali, Sumatra and Java for commercial purposes. This day is considered as very auspicious for any trade.

Lord Shiva is worshipped thorough out Orissa by the name of ‘Kartikeswar’, the Lord of Kartik month. On the day of Kartik Poornima Lord Shiva temples thronged by the devotees and Shivabhishekams are performed.

Kartik Poornima Celebrations:

This day is celebrated with fervor and enthusiam through out India. Many people observe fast on this day and take holy dip in the sacred rivers like Ganges and Yamuna. Watering Tulsi and Tulsi pooja is must for the day.

In evening the houses are lit with lamps. People chant Holy Names and Strotas for purification. People enjoy several festivities with family and friends in the moonlit night of Kartik Poornima.