Kartik Poornima is celebrated in the month of Kartik or Krithika (October-November). In
Orissa, during this month, pious Hindus give up non-vegetarian dishes till Kartik Poornima, the last day of the month. People take early bath and visit shrines during this month.
The last five days, referred as Panchaka, are considered to be more sacred and people consume food only once in the afternoon. During these days women draw flower-designs on the 'chaura', a small temple like structure with a 'Tulsi' plant overhead. The color powders are prepared indigenously. Temples of Lord Shiva are thronged by devotees, as Lord Shiva is believed to have killed the demon Tripurasura on the Kartik Poornima day. The temples are filled with chanting of 'kirtans', beating of drums and the sound of cymbals. Boita Bandana and Bali
Yatra in Cuttack are also celebrated on the Kartik Poornima day.
People go back to their routine life after Kartik Poornima. The festival is also known as Chhadakhai. This day is auspicious throughout India and several fairs, rituals and festivals take place on this day.
