The sacred festival of Kartik Purnima drew massive crowds to the river ghats across East Singhbhum, West Singhbhum, and Seraikela-Kharsawan districts, as devotees engaged in age-old traditions of bathing and worship. The air was filled with devotion as thousands took a purifying dip in the rivers before sunrise, dedicating their prayers to Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, and Goddess Ganga.
In East Singhbhum, the confluence of the Swarnarekha and Kharkai rivers at Domuhani became a spiritual epicenter. Devotees participated in the holy bath, followed by prayers and significant acts of charity, including the donation of essential goods and the lighting of lamps. This tradition is rooted in the belief that bathing in sacred waters on Kartik Purnima eradicates sins and bestows blessings equivalent to a year of pilgrimages.
The Karoi river in Gua Bazar, West Singhbhum, also witnessed a sea of devotees. The rituals commenced in the early hours, with pilgrims performing cleansing dips and prayers. A visually striking custom involved women setting small, illuminated boats adrift, carrying prayers for universal welfare. After their river ablutions, many visited local temples, joining queues to offer prayers and symbolic items to deities.
Spiritual leaders explained the immense importance of Kartik month, during which Lord Vishnu is believed to awaken from his deep meditation. This period is considered highly auspicious for performing religious duties, charity, and prayers, promising spiritual growth and material well-being.
Known as Tripurari Purnima, this day commemorates a significant divine event: Lord Shiva’s triumph over the powerful demon Tripurasura. This celestial victory over malevolence is a central narrative associated with the festival.
Local authorities and social organizations collaborated to facilitate the festivities. Enhanced security measures, traffic management, and sanitation drives were implemented at all major ghats. Volunteers and community groups also played a vital role by offering prasad, water, and basic medical support to the attendees.