Significance of Karthik masa: Holiest month of Hindu Calendar

Karthik masa or the month of Karthik is considered the holiest month of the Hindu calender. This is the most favorite month for both of the Supreme Gods Lord Vishnu and Shiva. According to Hindus, by following the rituals of Karthik masa and doing pujas in this month, one can attain immense happiness in life. Worshipping Lord Karthik this month is associated with gaining moksha (salvation). The pujas, rituals followed during this month are called Kartika Masa Vratam. The Karthika Purana lists the rituals and customs to be performed during the month of Karthik.

The rituals associated with the Karthik month are as following:

Japa: Lord Hari during the month of Karthik. And as per Hindu scriptures, Lord Hari blesses His devotee His own abode.
Deep Daan (offering lamps): Offering The Lord a diya during Karthik month is associated with attaining religious merit.

Brahmacharya: The rule of Brahmacharya is to be followed by the devotees during this month. One should not indulge in sex for the month.
Worshipping Tulsi Devi in Karthik gives you virtues. As per our scriptures, worshipping Tulsi during this month is equal to bathing at Prayag, death in Kashi, and study of the scriptures. 'Deep daan' to Tulsi plant is also considered good in this month. Applying the Tulsi plant soil on forehead is bestower of Saubhagya (fortune).

Give charity: One should try to give charity during Karthika masa.

Perform austerities: Lord Shiva said to His son Kartikeyaji, "Dear son! One who takes a bath before sunrise in the month of Kartik is absolved of all sins." By taking a bath during the Brahma murat in this month, one can attain merits equal to bathing in holy places of pilgrimage like Ganga, Kashi. Sleeping on the ground during the Karthik month is equal to giving a piece of land to Brahmins during the solar and lunar eclipses.