Pronunciation: [kˈɑːtɪkə] (IPA) 
Karttika is spelled with two "t"s and two "k"s. The first letter, "k", is pronounced /k/ like in the word "car". The next letter, "a", is pronounced /ɑ/ like in the word "father". The following "r" is pronounced with a rolling /r/ sound. The next two letters, "t" are pronounced as /t/, like in the word "tap". The last "i" is pronounced /i/ like in the word "ski", and the final "ka" is pronounced /kɑ/ with a strong emphasis on the "k".
Karttika, also spelled Kartika, is a significant month in the Hindu calendar that falls between mid-October and mid-November. It is the eighth month of the lunar-based Hindu calendar and is considered highly auspicious for performing religious rituals and observances. In Hinduism, Karttika is dedicated to worshipping Lord Shiva and Goddess Shakti (Parvati). It is believed that during this month, the divine energies of these deities are particularly active and accessible to devotees.
The name "Karttika" is derived from the Hindu deity Kartikeya or Skanda, who is known as the son of Lord Shiva and the brother of Lord Ganesha. Karttika is associated with various religious festivals and rituals, such as Kali Puja and Karva Chauth. It is believed that observing fasts, performing daily prayers, and engaging in acts of charity during Karttika can bring spiritual purification and bless devotees with prosperity and happiness.
During the month of Karttika, many Hindus observe a daily ritual called Karttika Vrata or Karthigai Viratham, where they perform special prayers and offer oil lamps to deities. Additionally, devotees often undertake pilgrimages to sacred riverbanks, temples, and other holy sites during this time. The month of Karttika holds immense importance in the spiritual and religious lives of Hindus, offering them an opportunity to deepen their faith and seek divine blessings.
The word "Karttika" has its roots in Sanskrit, an ancient language of India. In Sanskrit, the word is कार्त्तिक (Kārttika).
The term "Kārttika" is derived from the word "Kṛttikā", which refers to the Pleiades star cluster in astronomy. The Pleiades constellation is mentioned in various Hindu scriptures and is associated with the goddess Kṛttikā.
In Hinduism, the month of Karttika holds significant religious importance. It is commonly observed as a holy month, where devotees perform various religious practices and rituals. The name "Karttika" is believed to be given to this month due to the prominence of the Pleiades constellation during this time.
