The month of Karthika is the 8th and the most auspicious month in Hindu calendar. It is considered as the holiest month for Hindus. Kartik month (Karteeka masam) is the most favorite month for Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. During this month devotees observe Shiva Puja and Vishnu Pooja with utmost devotion. Many major and important Hindu festivals are celebrated during the month of Karthik.
In 2021, Kartik Month begins on October 21 and ends on November 19 as per North Indian Hindi Calendar followed in Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Bihar. In 2021, Kartik Month begins on 5 November and ends on December 4 as per Gujarati, Marathi, Kannada & Telugu & Goa calendars.
Legend of Kartik Month – Katha of Karthika Month
The holiness or mahatmya of Kartik month is mentioned in the Uttar Khanda of the Padma Purana. Explaining about how King Dilip attained salvation, sage Vashishta had referred to Kartik mahatmya (holiness of Kartik month) by giving several legends related to Kartik month.
Once, Satyabhama wanted to know the holiness of Kartik month. With her kind request, Lord Krishna explained the legend of demon Sankhasura. One a demon called Shankhasura (Conch Shell demon) has stolen the Vedas and taken away into the sea. To kill and bring back the Vedas, Lord Sri Maha Vishnu has incarnated as a fish (Matsya Avatar) and killed the Conch Shell demon and restored the Vedas. It is said that the incarnation of Matsya Avatar has taken place on the 11th day of Kartik month.