Kartik Purnima 2017: Significance and folklore

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New Delhi: Celebrated on the fifteenth lunar day in the month of Kartik, Kartik Purnima is an auspicious day. There are several names given to this day which hold immense cultural relevance.

It is believed by Hindu's that it was on this day when Lord Shiva defeated the three demons, Vidyunmali, Tarakaksha and Viryavana. The day is also known as the diwali of gods.

According to popular belief, Vidyunmali, Tarakaksha and Viryavana had a firm control over the world and had created three cities in space known as Tripura. On Kartik Purnima. On the day of Kartik Purnima, lord Shiva killed the three demons by using just one arrow.

Several parts of India celebrate this day which is also closely associated with Prabhodini Ekadashi. The end of Chaturmas, a four month period during which lord Vishnu sleeps is marked by Prabhodini Ekadashi.

The rituals revolving around Kartik Purnima are many. Annakuta, which is an offering of food to deities is carried out in various temples, people who took vows on Ashvin, full moon day, end them on this day.

Worshipping Lord Vishnu, keeping fast and feeding Brahmins are religious activites carried out on this day. People also indulge in charity, especially donation of cows.

The activities prohibited on this day include any form of violence, plucking of fruits and flowers, cutting of crops and hair cutting.

Gold is generally an auspicious gift to be given this day.  

Here's wishing everyone a very Happy Kartik Purnima 2017.