Today is ‘Kartik-Purnima’

Tweet

Yes it is the full moon day of Hindu month Kartik; it is important to people in Punjab as it is birthday of Guru Nanak. For us; I mean people of Odisha state in India it has special significance. Long back the businessmen from here known as ‘Sadhaba’ used to go far countries like Java, Sumatra, Borneo etc in sailboats; this day was most suitable for them for journey via sea. [b]In memory of that we sail small toy boats made from trunk of plantain we keep a small lighter wick lamp in it and float them in the nearest sea, river or pond after bathing there, those who don’t get this, use ready-made boats of plastic or thermocole; those who can’t go river, pond or sea float a boat in a water tub. [/b] My son and his wife took my granddaughter to river near our home, so that she knows about this. I and Kalyani because of health issues floated boats in our bath tub. [b]Let’s keep the traditions alive; let us keep our kids alert about all these. There is fair in the city.[/b] Many go to picnics. My great grandfather had made a Shiv temple on a hill long back in 1904. A fair is held at its base today. Many persons will visit this temple at hill top, they have to walk among trees; there are no steps to go there. Many will cook and eat a sort of picnic. Every year I used to go too. [b]Indian friends, is this day important for you, any rituals you observe on this day? Friends abroad; do you have any similar festival? Do you go to picnics? Do you visit fairs? Please respond and share your comments and opinions on this. [/b] Professor ‘Bhuwan’. . 28/11/2012 [i][/i]