Kartik Purnima, also known as Dev Diwali or Tripuri Purnima, is the sacred full moon night of the Bengali month of Kartik (November). In Bengal, this auspicious night is celebrated with the lighting of thousands of earthen lamps (Diyas) at riverbanks and temples. Devotees take a holy dip in sacred rivers before dawn, and the night sky glows with countless lights, making it one of the most visually magnificent festivals of the year. It also marks the birth of Kartikeya (Murugan), the god of war.

History: Kartik Purnima has deep roots in Hindu mythology. It commemorates the day when Lord Shiva defeated the demon Tripurasura, hence also called Tripuri Purnima. Lord Vishnu is said to have returned to his home (Vaikuntha) on this day after vanquishing the demon Mura, making it significant for Vaishnavite traditions too. In Bengal, the Kartik month is considered one of the holiest months of the year, dedicated to meditation and lamp offering.

Significance: The night is considered as auspicious as Diwali for spiritual cleansing. Lighting diyas on riverbanks (Akash Pradeep — sky lamp) is a signature Bengali tradition believed to guide the souls of ancestors. The Sikh community also celebrates Guru Nanak Jayanti on this day, making it universally significant.