Kathmandu:Today marks the beginning of the Kartik Snan, a month-long period of spiritual rituals including deepdan, the offering of oil lamps, and the special Tulasi puja. This tradition commences annually on Ashwin Shukla Purnima.
According to National News Agency RSS, many devotees hold the belief that engaging in prayers, taking sacred baths, lighting lamps, and giving donations during this period can invite spiritual blessings and help dispel negativity from their lives. The full moon is seen as a beacon of divine light, purity, and prosperity, which is why Kartik Purnima is such a significant time for religious practices.
The period from Ashwin Shukla Purnima to Kartik Shukla Purnima is considered auspicious for performing special worship of Tulasi, holy basil, along with Kartik Snan and Akashdeep, the lighting of sky lamps. These practices are believed to bring good fortune, prosperity, and respect.
The rituals during this time are dedicated to Lord Vishnu and involve lighting lamps. Many believe that the Tulasi Puja, especially when performed at home, can help fulfill one’s wishes. Prof. Dr. Ram Chandra Gautam, a theologian and former chairman of the Nepal Calendar Determination and Development Committee, shared that taking a Kartik bath starting from Ashwin Shukla Purnima is thought to help cleanse one of evil thoughts.
Additionally, Mahadeep donations are being made at Swayambhu Chaitya today, marking the significance of the occasion.