;Kartik Purnima, one of the most sacred full moon nights in the Hindu calendar, falls in the month of Kartik (October–November). This day marks the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Celebrated with immense devotion, Kartik Purnima holds deep religious, spiritual, and cultural importance across India.
The day is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, particularly in his Matsya (fish) incarnation, and is also significant for devotees of Lord Shiva. It symbolizes the culmination of the holy month of Kartik, a time of spiritual growth, fasting, and devotion.
According to Hindu mythology, Lord Vishnu took the Matsya Avatar on this day to save humanity and the Vedas from the demon Hayagriva. Kartik Purnima is also believed to be the birthday of Lord Kartikeya, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Devotees celebrate it as “Tripuri Purnima” or “Dev Deepawali,” marking the victory of Lord Shiva over the demon Tripurasura.
The gods are believed to descend to Earth on this divine night, blessing those who worship with pure hearts. Hence, Kartik Purnima is seen as a night of spiritual illumination and divine grace.
2025 Date and Timing for Kartik Purnima:
For the year 2025, the full-moon tithi (Purnima) for Kartik Purnima begins at 10:36 PM on Tuesday, November 4 and ends at 6:48 PM on Wednesday, November 5.
Moonrise happens at approximately 5:11 PM on November 5.
Auspicious time for bathing and charity is from 4:52 AM to 5:44 AM on November 5.
Morning puja time is from 7:58 AM to 9:20 AM.
Evening puja (Pradosh kaal) is from 5:15 PM to 7:05 PM.
Sacred Bath and Devotion:
Devotees begin the day with a holy dip in sacred rivers like the Ganga, Yamuna, or Godavari before sunrise. This ritual, known as “Kartik Snan,” is believed to cleanse sins and bring peace. The early morning is filled with the chants of mantras and the fragrance of incense as devotees offer prayers to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva.
Lighting of Lamps – Dev Deepawali:
Temples, homes, and ghats are beautifully decorated with thousands of diyas (lamps). The glow of the lamps is said to invite divine energy and dispel negativity. In Varanasi, the ghats come alive with magnificent lighting, music, and rituals, transforming the city into a heaven of light.
Charity and Fasting:
Charity holds a central place on Kartik Purnima. People donate food, clothes, and money to the needy. Many devotees observe fasts, breaking them only after evening prayers. Fasting on this day enhances spiritual strength and self-discipline.
Spiritual Meaning of Kartik Purnima
Kartik Purnima is more than a festival; it’s a call to awaken the divine within. The full moon symbolizes completeness, enlightenment, and the fulfillment of one’s spiritual journey. Lighting lamps signifies illuminating the inner soul with wisdom and compassion.
It’s believed that meditation and prayer performed on this night yield manifold results. Many devotees engage in bhajans, recitations of the Bhagavad Gita, and Pranic healing or meditation practices to deepen their spiritual connection.
Scientific Relevance of Kartik Purnima
From a scientific viewpoint, the full moon of Kartik affects human consciousness and the environment positively. The moon’s magnetic energy enhances emotional clarity and balance. The tradition of lighting lamps can also be seen as a symbolic representation of harmonizing natural and spiritual energies.
Festivities Across India
India celebrates Kartik Purnima in different regions with distinctive names. In Odisha, it’s observed as “Boita Bandana,” when people float miniature boats in rivers to honor ancient maritime traditions Punjab, Sikhs celebrate it as “Guru Nanak Jayanti,” marking the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. In South India, temples organize grand processions and devotional concerts.
Each region adds its unique color, yet the essence remains the same — spreading light, love, and divinity.
Also Read: Kartik Ekadashi 2025: Significance, Rituals, and Spiritual Meaning of Uthana Ekadashi
Kartik Purnima is a festival that transcends religion and geography. It’s a reminder that true light lies within us. When we light a lamp, we ignite hope, compassion, and wisdom in our hearts. On this sacred full moon night, let’s strive to cleanse our minds, help others, and embrace the divine light that guides us toward a path of peace and enlightenment.
