- By Kashish Rai
- Wed, 16 Oct 2024 02:07 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Kartik Maas 2024: In the Hindu calendar, Kartik Month holds unparalleled significance, declared unmatched by ancient scriptures. Commencing with the Sun's transit into Libra, Kartik Maas is revered for its spiritual potency. The Skanda Purana, Padma Purana, and Bhagavat Purana extol the month's virtues, emphasising its capacity for spiritual growth and divine connection. Considered auspicious for worship, charity, and self-reflection, Kartik Maas offers devotees a unique opportunity to seek Lord Krishna's blessings. Observing pious practices, such as chanting, meditation, and charity, during this sacred period amplifies their benefits, fostering spiritual advancement and inner peace.
Check out the start and end date, fasting rules, significance and rituals for the auspicious Kartik Month.
Kartik Maas 2024: Start And End Date
Kartik Maas 2024 Start Date: 18th October 2024
Kartik Maas 2024 End Date: 15th November 2024
Kartik Maas 2024: Significance
Kartik Month holds profound religious significance for Hindu devotees, who dedicate the entire month to revering Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna. This auspicious period is marked by various spiritual practices, including meditation, chakra activation, and early morning sadhana during Brahma Muhurat. Devotees also attend temple discourses on Kartik Maas Katha, seeking spiritual growth and enlightenment.
According to ancient beliefs, fasting and offering prayers during Kartik Month, particularly when the Rohini Nakshatra is in effect, brings immense blessings. It is said to grant wealth, material prosperity, and spiritual fulfilment. Special pujas are performed to honour Lord Krishna during this auspicious nakshatra. As the fourth month of Chaturmas, Kartik Maas marks the awakening of Lord Shri Hari from his prolonged slumber, making it an ideal time to connect with the divine and seek blessings.
Kartik Maas 2024: Rituals
During Kartik Maas, devotees observe sacred rituals to seek Lord Krishna's blessings. One of the significant practices is Deep Daan, offering diyas (earthen lamps) to Lord Krishna, symbolizing the illumination of knowledge and devotion. Devotees light lamps in temples, homes, and along rivers, creating a serene ambience. Additionally, chanting Damodar Ashtakam, a sacred hymn, is highly meritorious during this month. This devotional prayer, comprising eight verses, glorifies Lord Krishna's divine form and exploits.
Other rituals include daily puja, meditation, and recitation of sacred texts like the Bhagavat Purana. Devotees also observe fasting or vow to follow a satvik diet, abstaining from non-vegetarian food and worldly pleasures. Early morning sadhana during Brahma Muhurat, between 4:30 and 6:00 am, is considered auspicious for spiritual growth. By performing these rituals, devotees aim to purify their minds, seek Lord Krishna's grace, and accumulate spiritual merits. As Kartik Maas is considered a month of spiritual renewal, these practices help cultivate a deeper connection with the divine.
Kartik Maas is Hinduism's most sacred month, amplifying spiritual growth, divine connection, and Lord Krishna's blessings and enlightenment. (Image Source: Canva)
Kartik Maas 2024: Fasting Rules
Types of Fasts In Kartik Maas
During Kartik Maas, devotees can observe various types of fasts, including Nirjala (waterless), Ekanna (one meal), or Phalahar (fruit-based). Nirjala fast is considered the most auspicious, while Ekanna and Phalahar fasts are suitable for those unable to observe complete fasting. Fasting helps detoxify the body and mind, allowing devotees to focus on spiritual growth and connect with Lord Krishna.
Fasting Duration
Kartik Maas fasting typically begins on the first day (Pratipada) and continues until the full moon (Purnima). Devotees can choose to fast for the entire month or select specific days, such as Ekadashi, Dwadashi, or Sundays. Fasting duration varies, but the intention remains the same: to cultivate self-discipline, devotion, and spiritual awareness.
Dietary Restrictions
During Kartik Maas, devotees abstain from non-vegetarian food, onions, garlic, and other tamasic (impure) ingredients. Satvik (pure) foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are recommended. Avoidance of intoxicants, caffeine, and processed foods helps maintain a pure and sacred atmosphere. This dietary discipline enables devotees to focus on spiritual pursuits and connect with Lord Krishna's divine energy.
Fasting Timings
Kartik Maas fasting typically commences at sunrise and concludes after sunset or with the evening prayer (Sandhya). Devotees wake up early for Brahma Muhurat sadhana (4:30-6:00 am) and break their fast after evening puja. This structured schedule helps maintain spiritual focus and allows for introspection, prayer, and self-reflection.
Exemptions And Precautions
Pregnant women, elderly individuals, and those with health conditions are exempt from fasting or advised to modify their fasting schedule. Devotees should consult their healthcare provider before starting any fast. Additionally, fasting should not lead to weakness or exhaustion but rather enhance spiritual growth and well-being.
Mental And Physical Preparation
Before commencing Kartik Maas fasting, devotees should mentally prepare themselves with intention, prayer, and self-reflection. Physical preparation includes gradual dietary adjustments, increasing water intake, and reducing physical activity. This thoughtful approach ensures a smooth transition into the fasting period.
Breaking The Fast (Parana)
After completing the fast, devotees break their fast (Parana) with sacred offerings to Lord Krishna, followed by a satvik meal. Parana rituals include prayer, charity, and self-reflection, acknowledging the blessings received during the fasting period.
(Disclaimer: This is based on general public information. Jagran English does not confirm its veracity. Before adopting any measures, consult an expert in the relevant field.)