Lord Sri Krishna says, “Of all plants, the sacred Tulasi is most dear to Me, of all months, Kartika is most dear, of all places of pilgrimage, My beloved Dwarka is most dear, and of all days, Ekadasi is most dear.
(Padma Purana, Uttara Khanda 112.3)
During this auspicious month, people perform special activities to increase their spiritual practice. Some of these include – Chanting the Holy names of the Lord (Japa), Daily worship of Tulasi devi, Giving charity, Performing Austerities, Eating only Krishna Prasadam (sanctified food), practicing Brahmacharya (celibacy) and more. Worshipping Lord Damodara by offering ghee lamp as well as chanting of the Damodarastakam is also highly encouraged.
In the month of Kartika, one should worship Lord Damodara and recite the prayer known as Damodarashtakam, which has been spoken by the sage Satyavrata and which attracts Damodara. (Sri Hari Bhakti Vilasa 2.16.198)
Importance of Deep Dana:
Please hear the glories of offering a lamp/deepa during the month of Kartika, an offering that is very pleasing to Lord Krishna. O’ King of brahmanas, a person who offers a lamp in this way will not take birth again in this world.
(Text 100, Kartika-mahatmya, Hari-Bhakti-Vilasa)
Please join us in taking these glories out to all the souls drifting in the GTA region. Please help us in booking small Damodar programs in the homes of your friends & relatives. The format is very simple and it can be as short as one hour at each location. A group of devotees will visit homes (could be more than one/evening) perform Damodarashtakam, offer lamps and talk about the glories of this wonderful pass-time of the Lord. The host has to do nothing but just invite friends and family members and if desirous can just offer some fruit /juice to the invitees. If you are interested please fill out this form to book the programs, so please share this wonderful knowledge to all around you!!!