Kartik Purnima, observed on the full moon day in the Hindu lunar month of Kartik, emerges as one of the most sacred festivals with profound significance not just in Hinduism but also within the Sikh and Jain religious landscapes. This pan-religious festival underlines themes of spiritual awakening, self-purification, and divine remembrance, making it a unique occasion of collective faith that transcends individual doctrines.
Sikh Observance: Guru Nanak Jayanti
For Sikhs, Kartik Purnima coincides with the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, known as Gurpurab or Guru Nanak Jayanti. It is a day characterized by deep spirituality, community service, and vibrant celebration of the Guru’s teachings of equality, compassion, and devotion to God.
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Sikhs gather in large numbers at Gurdwaras around the world for prayer gatherings, including kirtan (devotional singing), sermons on Guru Nanak’s life and message, and langar (community kitchen) serving free meals to all, emphasizing the values of sharing and humility.
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The day is marked by processions (Nagar Kirtan) where devotees carry the Guru Granth Sahib while singing hymns, spreading the message of peace and unity.
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Devotees engage in charitable acts, reflecting Guru Nanak’s teachings on selfless service and social justice.
Jain Observance: Pilgrimage and Penance
For Jains, Kartik Purnima concludes the holy period of Chaturmas, a four-month interval dedicated to fasting, meditation, and penance observed traditionally during the monsoon season. The festival symbolizes spiritual renewal and recommencement of religious duties for Jain monks and laypeople alike.
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One of the largest pilgrimages occurs at Palitana, home to the sacred Shatrunjaya Hills, where thousands of devotees ascend on foot to the Jain temples, especially the Adinath temple atop the hill. This arduous journey signifies purification and devotion.
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The day is also associated with Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, who is believed to have sanctified these hills by visiting and preaching enlightenment.
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Acts of charity, non-violence, and daily rituals are intensified, underscoring the Jain emphasis on Ahimsa (non-harm) and self-discipline.
Shared Themes Across Sikhism and Jainism
Despite theological differences, both Sikh and Jain communities embrace Kartik Purnima as a day focused on:
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Spiritual Awakening: Seeking inner light, wisdom, and truth.
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Community Engagement: Collective prayers, sharing food, and mutual support.
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Charity and Compassion: Acts of kindness and aiding the needy are central to observances.
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Reflection and Renewal: Ending one spiritual cycle and beginning another with commitment to righteousness.
Kartik Purnima Today: Unity in Diversity
Kartik Purnima stands as a beacon of India’s rich spiritual pluralism, where diverse religious communities harmonize their celebrations of light, devotion, and moral renewal. Sikh Gurdwaras and Jain temples witness vibrant festivities, drawing devotees who partake in unique rituals yet share the universal quest for enlightenment.
The festival’s rituals—be it the luminous processions of Sikhs or the solemn pilgrimages of Jains—reflect humanity’s common aspiration for peace, self-purification, and divine grace.
