All religious festivals bring the universal message of light, enlightenment and empowerment that transforms darkness to self-illumination and spiritual evolution. The various Hindu celebrations that mark our religious calendar are a constant reminder of the process of evolution which we need to be engaged in unceasingly. The month of Kartik ( October-November) in the Hindu calendar is considered to be one of the most auspicious periods of the year for imbibing in various activities that will bring us closer to the goal of enlightenment. Commencing just after the Ashvin full-moon, the month of Kartik this year will be observed from October 16 until the Kartik full moon on November 14, 2016. Quite a number of auspicious occasions are observed during this month. These naimittik karma ( occasional observances) have been prescribed by the seers of Hinduism to help man in his God-ward sojourn, to realise his true divine nature.
As such, one should engage in a month of intense sacrifice, austerities and increased time spent in communion with the Divine. The special occasions offer an abundance of opportunities to increase focus on the spiritual and release oneself from the bondage of the negative qualities such as anger, greed, envy, lust and hate.
The entire month of Kartik is dedicated to Tulsi worship. This plant which holds great significance to Hindus is worshipped daily during this month. Apart from Tulsi-worship, other auspicious occasions that are observed in the month of Kartik are:
- Karva Chowth
- Hanuman Jayanti
- Divali
- Goverdhan Puja
- Maha Ekaadasi
- Kartik Nahaan
Observance of these occasions is indeed an attempt at transforming the inner darkness to enlightenment. Positive attributes in the form of health, harmony, stability, mobility, control of our senses, peace and love for our fellowman are strengthened. There are benefits for all. No losses are there in engaging in blessed opportunities for one month. Why not take advantage of this auspicious time!
