The month of Kattak (ਕੱਤਕ) in the Punjabi calendar typically falls between October and November in the Gregorian calendar. It is a time of transition from autumn to winter, with significant cultural and religious events. The month is known for its cool breezes and festive spirit, as it plays host to some of the most important celebrations in the Punjabi and Sikh traditions.
Important Dates and Events in Kattak (ਕੱਤਕ)
1. Diwali (ਦਿਵਾਲੀ)
- Date: Typically in late October or early November (based on the lunar calendar).
- Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is one of the most important Hindu festivals, celebrated with immense enthusiasm across Punjab. Homes are decorated with lamps, candles, and rangoli. People burst firecrackers and enjoy delicious sweets. For Sikhs, Diwali holds particular significance as it marks the return of Guru Hargobind Ji, the sixth Sikh Guru, to Amritsar after freeing 52 kings from imprisonment. The Golden Temple in Amritsar is illuminated beautifully on this day.
- Gregorian Equivalent (2024): November 1
2. Bandi Chhor Divas (ਬੰਦੀ ਛੋੜ ਦਿਵਸ)
- Date: Coincides with Diwali (late October or early November).
- Bandi Chhor Divas is celebrated by Sikhs to commemorate the release of Guru Hargobind Ji and 52 other political prisoners from the Gwalior Fort. It is a day of reflection, freedom, and justice, often observed with prayers and gatherings at Gurdwaras (Sikh temples).
- Gregorian Equivalent (2024): November 1
3. Guru Nanak Jayanti (ਗੁਰੂ ਨਾਨਕ ਜਨਮ ਦਿਵਸ)
- Date: Generally falls in November.
- This festival celebrates the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. It is one of the holiest festivals in the Sikh calendar, and devotees offer prayers, perform kirtans (religious hymns), and organize processions. The day begins with early morning prayers and continues with langar (community kitchens) serving food to all.
- Gregorian Equivalent (2024): November 15
4. Kartik Purnima (ਕਾਰਤਿਕ ਪੂਰਨਿਮਾ)
- Date: Occurs on the full moon night in the month of Kattak.
- Kartik Purnima is a sacred day for both Hindus and Sikhs. For Hindus, it marks the end of the holy month of Kartik and is associated with the worship of Lord Vishnu. For Sikhs, it is celebrated as Guru Nanak Jayanti. The day is considered highly auspicious for charitable acts, bathing in holy rivers, and praying.
- Gregorian Equivalent (2024): November 15
5. Tulsi Vivah (ਤੁਲਸੀ ਵਿਆਹ)
- Date: Takes place in the latter half of Kattak, generally in November.
- Tulsi Vivah is a Hindu festival that symbolizes the marriage of the Tulsi plant (considered sacred) to Lord Vishnu. It is celebrated with rituals and prayers, mainly at home or in temples. It marks the end of Diwali festivities and the beginning of the wedding season.
- Gregorian Equivalent (2024): November 11
The Significance of Kattak in Punjabi Culture
The month of Kattak is significant for its festivals that revolve around themes of light, liberation, and devotion. Diwali, which brings light into homes and hearts, reflects the transition to winter. The release of Guru Hargobind Ji during Bandi Chhor Divas is a powerful reminder of justice and freedom, both central to Sikh teachings. Meanwhile, Guru Nanak Jayanti celebrates the core values of Sikhism: equality, service and devotion to God.
As the weather cools down, the people of Punjab enjoy these celebrations with vibrant colors, rituals and gatherings that bind communities together in joy and reverence.
FAQs About Kattak (ਕੱਤਕ)
- What is the significance of the month of Kattak in the Punjabi calendar?
Kattak is a significant month in the Punjabi calendar as it hosts important religious and cultural festivals such as Diwali, Bandi Chhor Divas, and Guru Nanak Jayanti. - When does Kattak fall in the Gregorian calendar?
The month of Kattak typically falls between late October and November in the Gregorian calendar. - Why do Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas during Kattak?
Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas to commemorate the release of Guru Hargobind Ji and 52 kings from imprisonment, symbolizing justice and freedom. - What is the importance of Guru Nanak Jayanti in Kattak?
Guru Nanak Jayanti is one of the holiest Sikh festivals celebrated in Kattak. It marks the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. - How is Diwali different for Sikhs and Hindus?
While Diwali is a significant Hindu festival celebrating the return of Lord Rama, Sikhs observe Diwali to mark the return of Guru Hargobind Ji from imprisonment, coinciding with Bandi Chhor Divas.