Kartika

Kartika is a month in the Hindu lunisolar calendar. It typically falls between mid-October and mid-November in the Gregorian calendar. The name Kartika is derived from the star Krittika, also known as the Pleiades. This month is considered highly auspicious in Hinduism and is dedicated to the worship of various deities, most notably Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu.

Several important festivals occur during Kartika. The most prominent is Diwali, the festival of lights, which usually falls in this month. Other significant observances include Kartik Purnima, celebrated on the full moon day of Kartika, often marked by bathing in sacred rivers and lighting lamps. The entire month is often observed with fasting, prayer, and acts of charity. Many devotees undertake special rituals and vows during Kartika to seek spiritual merit and divine blessings. The month is associated with purity and spiritual awakening, and it is believed that performing good deeds during this time yields significant benefits. The presiding deity for the month is often considered to be Lord Vishnu in his celestial form.