Embracing Kartik: Journey into Bhakti Yoga + Damodar Lila
My first experience of Kartik at the Bhakti Center in New York City was nothing short of magical. I walked in without any expectations and found myself immersed in an atmosphere that felt both serene and sacred. The room was softly lit by flickering candles, creating an intimate and peaceful setting that seemed worlds away from the loud city outside. There was a sense of connection and warmth that made the energy in the room feel almost tangible. This experience not only introduced me to the significance of Kartik but also gave me a bigger glimpse into the depth of Bhakti Yoga
What is Kartik and Why is it Important?
Kartik is considered one of the most auspicious months in the spiritual calendar, especially in the traditions of Bhakti Yoga. According to the scriptures, Kartik is a time of heightened spiritual energy, making it the perfect opportunity to deepen our connection with the divine and embrace practices that align our hearts and minds. Kartik marks a seasonal transition, inviting us to slow down and embrace more grounding routines that harmonize with nature.
During this month, devotees engage in acts of devotion, such as lighting ghee lamps (diyas), singing devotional songs, and offering prayers and gratitude. These practices are believed to amplify blessings and create a deeper connection with the divine energy within us. Kartik is not just about external rituals; it’s about turning inward, reconnecting with our true selves, and nurturing the light that resides in our hearts.
The Essence of Bhakti Yoga
Bhakti Yoga, the path of devotion, lies at the heart of Kartik. The word bhakti means “love” or “devotion,” and Bhakti Yoga is a spiritual practice that cultivates a deep, loving connection with the divine. This practice is centered around the idea that within every living being is a soul—a spark of spiritual energy that connects us all. By recognizing this, we understand that we are more than just our bodies; we are spiritual beings on a journey to rediscover our true nature.
According to Sacinandana Swami, Bhakti Yoga is "the journey of the heart, where we offer love to God and connect deeply with our true self." It’s a practice that invites us to embrace love, kindness, and simplicity in our daily lives. Through small acts of devotion, gratitude, and service, we cultivate a heart-centered approach to living that aligns us with our spiritual essence.
The Damodar Lila: A Sacred Story of Devotion
A tradition I always love most about Kartik is the reading of the Damodar Lila from the Srimad Bhagavatam. This story holds special significance in Bhakti Yoga as it highlights the loving and playful relationship between Lord Krishna and His mother, Yashoda. According to the story, young Krishna broke into a pot of butter. When His mother, Yashoda, tried to tie Him up as a playful punishment, the rope kept coming up short. Krishna allowed Himself to be "bound" by the pure love and devotion of His mother.
The Damodar Lila is read during Kartik to remind devotees that the divine can be approached and experienced through sincere love and devotion. The act of offering ghee lamps, singing the Damodarastakam, and reflecting on Krishna’s pastimes symbolize surrender, gratitude, and the expression of love.
How to Embrace Kartik
Kartik is a time to pause, reflect, and reconnect with our inner light. It’s a time to align our actions with love and devotion, and to embrace simple practices that nurture our spiritual well-being. Here are a few ways I’ve learned to embrace the essence of Kartik and Bhakti Yoga:
Express Gratitude Daily: Start each day with a moment of gratitude. It can be as simple as acknowledging the blessings in your life and thanking the divine for them.
Practice Simple Acts of Devotion: Light a ghee lamp or candle in the evening, sing devotional songs, or offer a prayer. These small acts create a sense of connection and reverence.
Serve with Love: Look for ways to offer kindness and support to those around you. Acts of service, no matter how small, embody the essence of Bhakti Yoga.
The Connection Between Kartik and Bhakti Yoga
Kartik is more than a spiritual observance; it’s an invitation to connect with our true selves and the divine energy that resides within. Bhakti Yoga teaches us that through love, devotion, and selfless acts, we can deepen our relationship with the divine and with each other. During this sacred month, the practices of Bhakti become even more potent, creating a beautiful space for reflection, devotion, and spiritual growth.
Whether you’re just starting on your Bhakti Yoga journey or looking to deepen your practice, Kartik is the perfect time to embrace these teachings and invite more love and connection into your life!