Kartika Month: A Time for Devotion

Every year, Kartika Month inspires millions to slow down, look inward, and reconnect with light and faith.

Kartika Month in the Hindu calendar, is known to be sacred and uplifting, it fills communities with devotion, reflection, a sense of spiritual connection. The month begins with powerful traditions that help people slow down, connect with their faith, and focus on inner peace.

One of the biggest celebrations during this time is Dev Diwali, often called the “Diwali of the Gods.” This festival is especially marvelous in Varanasi, where thousands of glowing lamps light up the Ganga River. Dev Diwali honors Lord Shiva’s victory over Tripurasura, the moment that represents the triumph of light over darkness and the power of good over negativity.

Another important day is Kartika Purnima, which this year was on November 5. This full moon day is believed to be one of the most spiritually powerful days of the year. Many people take holy baths, give to charity, offer prayers, and perform acts of kindness as a way to cleanse the mind and bring positive energy into their lives. It is a time when good actions are said, to bring even greater blessings.

As Kartika Month comes to a close, it leaves behind feelings of warmth, gratitude, and hope which remind us that even the smallest light can guide us through the darkness

Keeshika Dhussa,
Grade 9

Edited By: Ruchika Sareen

Hindu Heritage Month (Canada)

Introduction

On November 1, 2022, Canada declared November as Hindu Heritage Month—a time to honor Hindu culture, traditions, and contributions. It’s an opportunity for everyone to learn about Hinduism, its history, and values.

This month is filled with vibrant cultural expressions—music, dance, art, language, food, and festivals that showcase the richness of Hindu traditions.

Why November?

Canada chose to celebrate Hindu Heritage Month in November because many Hindu celebrations fall in that month. Such as Diwali, Govardhan Puja, Kartik Purnima and many more. November also recognizes peace and unity, and which aligns very well with the core values of Hinduism.

Why did Canada choose to recognize it?

Nearly one million Hindus live in Canada, contributing to medicine, engineering, entrepreneurship, arts, and public service. Recognizing Hindu Heritage Month promotes multiculturalism and combats racism.

What does Hindu Heritage mean to you?

To me, Hindu heritage is about understanding the meaning behind our traditions and connecting with our roots. As a child, I simply followed what my parents did, but growing up helped me learn why we fast, touch elders’ feet, and celebrate festivals. Listening to stories of Ram Ji, Ma Sita, and Bhagwaan Krishna deepened that connection. Hindu heritage blesses us, shapes good habits, and links us to our ancestors. I know some young Hindus feel embarrassed or even deny their culture—I went through that phase too. But it’s better to share and educate others than let them barely know it exists.

Ira Sharma
Grade 7

Edited By: Ruchika Sareen

Ayurveda for Autumn Wellness

Tips for Autumn and Winter Inspired by Ayurveda

As the air gets colder and the days grow shorter, many of us start feeling the effects of the seasonal change. Autumn and winter are beautiful in Ontario, but they can also be tough on our bodies and energy levels. Ayurveda offers simple tips that can help us stay healthy, calm, and balanced during these colder months.

In Ayurveda, autumn is connected to Vata, a dosha linked to dryness, lightness, and movement. Winter can increase Vata even more and sometimes bring in Kapha, which is heavy and sluggish. When these qualities get out of balance, we may feel tired, scattered, or run-down. That’s why Ayurveda encourages warming foods, regular routines, and self-care.

Choose Warm, Nourishing Foods:
Colder weather is the perfect time for hearty meals like soups, stews, roasted vegetables, and oatmeal. Adding warming spices such as ginger, cinnamon, and turmeric can help support digestion and keep us feeling cozy.

Hydrate and Care for Your Skin:
The dry air outside and indoor heating can make our skin feel rough. Drinking warm water or herbal tea helps keep the body hydrated. Ayurveda also recommends a simple self-massage with warm sesame or almond oil, which can relax the body and protect the skin.

Stick to a Routine:
Keeping regular sleep times, doing gentle exercise like walking or yoga, and getting fresh air daily can help steady the mind and boost mood.

As the season slows down, Ayurveda reminds us to slow down with it. By making small changes, we can move through autumn and winter feeling stronger, warmer, and more connected to ourselves.

Amani Sood
10th Grade

Edited By: Shreya

Tulsi Shaligram Vivah

Tulsi Shaligram Vivah is a traditional Hindu festival marking the ceremonial marriage of the Goddess Tulsi, who is represented by a Tulsi plant, and Lord Vishnu, who is represented by a Shaligram stone. This event marks the end of the monsoon season and the auspicious beginning of the Hindu wedding season.

The Goddess Tulsi is considered an incarnation of the Goddess Lakshmi. Celebrating this event at home is believed to bring prosperity, peace, and marital happiness. It is also an opportunity for families to perform the symbolic kanyadaan.

Tulsi Vivah is treated like a joyous family wedding. Families decorate the Tulsi altar, dress the Tulsi plant as a bride with a sari and jewelry, and prepare the Vishnu murti as the groom. Family members then perform traditional rituals: the symbolic exchange of garlands, the application of haldi, a symbolic kanyadaan, and the aarti. Participating in these rituals is believed to strengthen family bonds and attract divine blessings into their homes.

Avish Sareen
8th Grade

Edited By: Shreya