Kartika is a noun in Hindu mythology and religion that holds significance in various contexts. It is derived from the Sanskrit word "Kartik," meaning "son of Krittika" or "one who is born under the Krittika nakshatra (constellation)." Kartika is primarily associated with Lord Murugan or Subrahmanya, the god of war, victory, and wisdom, who is believed to be the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
In Hindu scriptures and Puranas, Kartika is often portrayed as a powerful deity riding a peacock, wielding a spear or lance, and adorned with a vel (spear) and a rooster emblem. Kartika is worshiped on the sixth day (Shashti) of the lunar month Kartika, which falls between October-November in the Gregorian calendar, known as Kartik Shashti or Kartika Vrata.
The festival of Kartika is celebrated with great enthusiasm in various parts of India, particularly in South India, where devotees observe fasting, visit temples, and offer prayers to Lord Kartika. It is believed that the worship of Kartika brings protection, prosperity, and spiritual growth to the devotees. The festival also coincides with the harvest season, and it is customary to light oil lamps, create decorative rangoli patterns, and engage in cultural festivities during this time.
Overall, Kartika is a significant figure in Hindu mythology and a prominent deity associated with virtues like courage, valor, and intelligence. The term also refers to the month of Kartika in the Hindu lunar calendar.
