Understanding the significance of Kartik month in Hinduism

Q: Dear Mahesh, I read your article two years ago where you mentioned that in the month of October you should light diyas to enhance good luck and you wrote about fasting. Which day should we start lighting it and fast?

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A: According to Hindu scriptures, there are four most holy months in the year. These together are called “Chaturamas”. It starts with “Shravan” which is one of the holiest months and it ends with “Kartik”.

“Shravan” month which is popularly known as “Sawan” is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Kartik month which is popularly known as “Damodar Mass” is dedicated to Lord Hari and this Kartik month is also very dear to Lord Shiva.

The other two months of “Chaturamas” are Bhadrapad and Ashwin.

The yogis, munis, gurus, highly spiritual persons and hardcore devotees observe a strict fast for four months.

People who follow Jainism, the Chaturamas fast is the essence of their religion. They have their set rules and norms to follow.

Kartik is the holiest month in the Hindu lunar calendar. It usually overlapsthe months of October and November in the English calendar.

It is described in the scriptures as the best among months for performing austerities. Lord Shri Krishna says, “Of all plants, the sacred Tulsi is most dear to Me; of all months, Kartik is most dear, of all places of pilgrimage, My beloved Dwarka is most dear, and of all days, Ekadashi is most dear.” (Padma Purana, Uttara Khand 112.3)