Full Moon Festivals — Hindu Sacred Festival
Kartik Purnima
Kartik Purnima is one of the most sacred full moon nights of the Hindu calendar, falling on the full moon of Kartik month. It is simultaneously celebrated as Dev Diwali (the Diwali of the Gods), Tripuri Purnima (the night Lord Shiva destroyed the three demon cities of Tripurasura), and the birthday of Lord Kartikeya. Millions of devotees take ritual baths in sacred rivers — especially at Varanasi where thousands of lamps are floated on the Ganga — and light diyas to welcome the gods who are believed to descend to earth on this night.
Last updated: 23 April 2026 · Source: Vedic Tradition
Significance
One of the holiest nights of the year — bathing in sacred rivers on Kartik Purnima is said to bestow the merit of performing a hundred Ashwamedha yagnas. Dev Diwali marks the end of Chaturmas when the gods awaken from their cosmic sleep.
Rituals & Traditions
Pre-dawn bath in sacred river (especially Ganga, Yamuna, Pushkar lake). Light diyas on river banks. Float earthen lamps on the river. Perform Satyanarayan Puja. Visit Vishnu and Shiva temples. Light lamps at home in evening. Observe fast.
Traditional Foods
FAQ
Q.What is Kartik Purnima?
Kartik Purnima is one of the most sacred full moon nights of the Hindu calendar, falling on the full moon of Kartik month. It is simultaneously celebrated as Dev Diwali (the Diwali of the Gods), Tripuri Purnima (the night Lord Shiva destroyed the thr...
Q.What is the significance of Kartik Purnima?
One of the holiest nights of the year — bathing in sacred rivers on Kartik Purnima is said to bestow the merit of performing a hundred Ashwamedha yagnas. Dev Diwali marks the end of Chaturmas when the gods awaken from their cosmic sleep.
Q.What are the rituals of Kartik Purnima?
Pre-dawn bath in sacred river (especially Ganga, Yamuna, Pushkar lake). Light diyas on river banks. Float earthen lamps on the river. Perform Satyanarayan Puja. Visit Vishnu and Shiva temples. Light lamps at home in evening. Observe fast.
Q.What foods are made during Kartik Purnima?
Kheer, Satyanarayan prasad, Panchamrit, Fruits, Panjiri