According to tradition, the month of Kartik follows Margashirsha, which, according to verse 35 of chapter 10 of the Shrimad Bhagavatam, was described by Lord Krishna as His own manifestation. In the Vaishnava tradition, the month of Kartik is considered the favorite month of Radha Rani.
During this month, followers take a holy dip in auspicious time in the morning, followed by worship of Lord Shri Hari and Radha Rani. In 2026, the month of Kartik will run from October 27 to November 24.
There is a belief that receiving the grace of Radha Rani before worshipping Lord Krishna is of great significance. To appease Radha Rani, special fasts, worship rituals, fire offerings, and devotional songs are observed during the month of Kartik. In the Vaishnava tradition, the fast in Kartik is also known as Ujjwala Vrat. During this period, followers maintain self-discipline and observe rules while worshipping Lord Krishna and Radha Rani. Thus, Kartik is a month dedicated to the power of Radha Rani, who is the power of Krishna.
The month of Kartik is also associated with the divine union of Radha and Krishna, as it is in this month that Radha Rani attained the vision of Krishna. Therefore, joint worship of Radha and Krishna during this period is considered especially fruitful.
Fire offerings, Tulasi worship, morning bathing, and worship of Lord Damodara hold special significance in the month of Kartik. In the Braj region, devotional songs and special decorations are held daily in temples. Followers light lamps both at home and in temples, wishing for prosperity, well-being, and spiritual growth. Kartik is not only a time for religious rites but also a sacred month carrying the message of love, devotion, selflessness, and the grace of Radha and Krishna.
The schedule includes the following dates: Thursday, October 29 — Karva Chauth; Sunday, November 1 — Ahoy Ashtami, bathing in Radha Kund; Thursday, November 5 — Rama Ekadashi; Friday, November 6 — Dhanteras; Sunday, November 8 — Diwali, worship of Lakshmi; Tuesday, November 10 — Govardhan Puja, Annakut; Wednesday, November 11 — Bhai Dooj; Sunday, November 15 — Chhat Puja, evening Arghya; Tuesday, November 17 — Gopashtami; Wednesday, November 18 — Akshaya Navami (Amla Navami); Friday, November 20 — Devuthani Ekadashi, conclusion of Chaturmas; Saturday, November 21 — Tulasi Vivah; Tuesday, November 24 — Kartik Purnima, Deva Diwali, Guru Nanak's Birthday.