Kartik Purnima is the last day of Kartik month as per North Indian Hindu calendars. This festival is observed with a lot of gusto in Varanasi and other pilgrim towns in North India.
Ganga is the most auspicious river as per Hinduism and Kartik Snan in Ganga river is considered as highly meritorious ritual. Kartik Purnima is also known as Dev Diwali as it marks the victory of good over evil. It is said that on Dev Diwali day, Rakshasas were defeated by Devas (demigods).
In 2023, Kartik Purnima date is November 26-27.
In Varanasi, after performing Kartik Snan in Ganga River, devotees visit Kasi Vishwanath temple and offer special prayers. Devotees also offer Gangajal to the Lord. Lord Bhairav Nath temple is also visited during Kartik Purnima. Gange Aarti is the most important event at night time on Dev Diwali.