This festival marks the beginning of the auspicious "Ashtahnika" (eight-day) period in the month of Kartika, which is considered highly sacred for Jains. It is a time for deep spiritual practices, prayers, and fasting, aiming to purify the soul and remove karmic impurities.
Kartika Ashtahnika is a significant and auspicious festival observed by the Jain community. It is celebrated in the month of Kartika, which is considered a sacred month filled with spiritual activities and religious observances. This festival spans eight days of intense devotion, where devotees engage in various rituals, prayers, and fasting, aiming to purify their souls and attain spiritual growth.
In 2025, Kartika Ashtahnika is set to commence on November 1st. The festival is observed according to the lunar calendar, and its precise timing is determined by the specific alignment of celestial bodies. Devotees begin their rituals at dawn, marking the start of the eight-day spiritual journey.
Kartika Ashtahnika is steeped in rich mythology and historical significance. According to Jain scriptures, the festival is linked to the life of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara. It is believed that during this time, Lord Mahavira attained Kevala Jnana (omniscience) after completing a prolonged period of penance. This event inspires devotees to seek enlightenment through similar practices.
Vedic astrology holds that the positioning of planets during Kartika Ashtahnika is highly favorable for spiritual pursuits. The alignment of stars and planets during this period is said to enhance the potency of mantras and rituals, making it an ideal time for meditation, prayer, and self-reflection.
Astrologers suggest that the Kartika month is ruled by the planet Mars, which symbolizes energy, courage, and transformation. This period is particularly beneficial for those seeking to overcome obstacles and embrace inner change. Astrological practices during Kartika Ashtahnika often involve examining ones birth chart to determine the most auspicious times for performing rituals.
The rituals of Kartika Ashtahnika are varied and profound. Devotees typically begin their day with a ritual bath before sunrise, followed by prayers and offerings at the temple. Fasting is a common practice, with many participants abstaining from food and water during daylight hours to focus on spiritual growth. Other rituals include the recitation of holy texts, meditation, and participating in community prayer sessions.
The practices observed during Kartika Ashtahnika offer numerous health and spiritual benefits. Fasting detoxifies the body and improves mental clarity, while meditation and prayer enhance emotional well-being and connect individuals with their spiritual selves. The festival provides a structured opportunity for self-reflection, encouraging personal growth and a deeper understanding of ones place in the universe.
Chanting mantras is a core component of Kartika Ashtahnika. Mantras are sacred sounds or phrases that, when repeated, are believed to generate spiritual energy and elevate the soul. Commonly chanted mantras during this festival include the Navkar Mantra, which honors the five supreme beings, and the Bhaktamara Stotra, a devotional hymn praising the virtues of Tirthankaras.
In contemporary society, Kartika Ashtahnika remains a vibrant and celebrated festival. While traditional practices continue to hold sway, modern adaptations have emerged to accommodate busy lifestyles. Many people participate in online communal prayers and virtual temple visits, allowing them to engage with the festivals spiritual essence from anywhere in the world. Additionally, social media platforms have become a space for sharing insights, experiences, and teachings related to Kartika Ashtahnika, fostering a global community of devotees.
Kartika Ashtahnika is a profound celebration that blends ancient traditions with modern adaptations. It offers a unique opportunity for spiritual renewal and personal growth, encouraging participants to deepen their connection with their faith and community. As the festival continues to evolve, it remains a testament to the enduring power of religious observance and the universal quest for enlightenment and peace.
```
Joy Story Foundation is a section-8, non-profit organization founded in November 2019, registered with Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India. It aspires to build stories around “Joy for Everyone” by practicing the values of collective philanthropy and by maintaining utmost transparency in order to achieve it. Our vision is to ensure that we do our bit to free the world of gloom, sorrow, deprivation, pessimism, and pain by inducing small positive moments to bring joy in the world. And we would go to any extent to achieve that, irrespective of geographical boundaries, religion, age, color or need. Our giving would be completely unbiased, non- religious and non-political.