Significance and religious practices associated with Kartik Purnima
The Statesman | 9 November 2025
In the Hindu religious tradition, the month of Kartik is regarded as highly sacred. The bright full-moon day of this month is known as Kartik Purnima. This day holds special significance for its various rituals, vows, and fairs. It is not only a religious occasion but also celebrated in many regions as a social and cultural festival, says Netai Chandra Basu, sebait, Lake Kali Bari on Southern Avenue.
Mythological Significance
The scriptures state that on the day of Kartik Purnima, Lord Shiva slew the demon Tripurasura. Hence, this day is also called Tripurari Purnima. On this occasion, special worship, chanting, meditation, and charitable offerings are performed in Shiva temples.
The Glory of Vishnu and Ganga
The Skanda Purana mentions that bathing in the river Ganga on this full moon day grants great spiritual merit. The Vaishnava community observes this day as Tulsi Vivah – the ceremonial marriage of the sacred Tulsi plant (holy basil) with the Shalagrama Shila (a sacred stone symbol of Vishnu).
Worship of Kartikeya and Other Deities
In South India, this day is dedicated to the worship of Kartikeya (Murugan), the god of war. Many also perform special rituals in honour of goddess Lakshmi and goddess Annapurna.
Religious Practices include bathing and charity: Taking a holy dip in the Ganga or any sacred river at dawn and offering charity is considered highly auspicious. Lighting of lamps at temples, on river banks and homes is considered auspicious. The day is also observed as a festival of lights (Alokotsava).
Fasting and Worship: Many devotees observe fasts and worship either Lord Shiva or Lord Vishnu.
Kartik Purnima in Bengal
In many parts of Bengal, especially along the riverbanks, the day is observed through the ritual of Kartik Snan (holy bathing). Large gatherings can be seen at river ghats in regions such as South 24-Parganas, Nadia, and Hooghly during early morning hours.
Among Shakta (goddess-worshipping) families, the day is also dedicated to the worship of goddess Annapurna.
Many regions hold fairs on this day. Massive crowds gather at holy places like Gangasagar, Varanasi, Haridwar, and Ujjain.
In south India, the Karthigai Deepam festival is celebrated on this day, when countless lamps are lit, creating a sea of light across the skies.
Kartik Purnima is not merely a religious observance, it symbolises the diverse cultural and spiritual heritage of India. It unites the devotion to Shiva, Vishnu, Ganga, and Goddess Annapurna. Through sacred bathing, charity, lamp-lighting, Tulsi vivah, fairs, and folk festivities, the day fills the entire Indian subcontinent with an atmosphere of joy and devotion.