Famous Temples Celebrating Karthika Pournami in New York 2025

Karthika Pournami, one of the most sacred Hindu festivals, falls on the full moon day in the month of Karthika (November-December). This auspicious occasion holds profound spiritual significance, commemorating Lord Shiva’s victory over the demon Tarakasura and Lord Vishnu’s return to his celestial abode after the Vamana avatar. For New York’s diverse and growing Hindu community, this festival has become a cherished tradition, celebrated with devotion and enthusiasm at temples across the state, from Flushing to White Plains and everywhere in between.

Note: Today is November 4, 2025—the eve of Karthika Pournami (observed tomorrow, November 5). Check temple websites or social media for last-minute updates, as some events may adjust for local tithi timings (Purnima begins tonight at ~10:36 PM ET).

Significance of Karthika Pournami

Karthika Pournami is observed with deep reverence across Hindu traditions worldwide. Devotees mark this holy day by lighting lamps, taking sacred baths, performing prayers, and offering special pujas to various deities. The festival holds particular significance for:

Devotion to Lord Shiva: Commemorating his triumph over demonic forces
Worship of Lord Kartikeya: The divine son of Shiva, born on this sacred day
Tulsi Vivah: The ceremonial marriage of the holy Tulsi plant to Lord Vishnu
Spiritual Purification: An ideal day for charity, meditation, and seeking divine blessings
Deepa Aradhana: The worship through lighting of lamps, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness

Major Temples Celebrating Karthika Pournami in New York

1. Hindu Temple Society of North America, Flushing, Queens

The Hindu Temple Society of North America in Flushing, established in 1977 as the first Hindu temple in North America, stands as one of New York’s most iconic Hindu temples. Modeled after traditional South Indian architecture, this architectural marvel celebrates Karthika Pournami with exceptional grandeur. The temple conducts elaborate abhishekams to Lord Ganesha and special pujas for Lord Shiva, with extended darshan hours throughout the day. Thousands of devotees from across the New York metropolitan area participate in diurnal deepams and the lighting of traditional lamps across the temple’s grounds. The celebration includes Karthigai pyre rituals, cultural programs, and devotional singing that continues late into the evening. The temple’s priests perform authentic Vedic rituals, maintaining traditional practices while serving New York’s multicultural Hindu community.

Address: 45-57 Bowne Street, Flushing, NY 11355 Contact: (718) 478-2282 | Website

2. Sri Maha Vallabha Ganapati Devasthanam, Flushing, Queens

The Sri Maha Vallabha Ganapati Devasthanam in Flushing celebrates Karthika Pournami with special emphasis on Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, while honoring the festival’s broader significance. The temple transforms into a spiritual haven with elaborate decorations, traditional lamp preparations, and special abhishekams. Devotees participate in pradakshina around the sanctum sanctorum carrying oil lamps, while priests conduct continuous pujas throughout the day. The celebration attracts Queens’ large Indian and Sri Lankan Hindu community, along with devotees from diverse backgrounds. Traditional music, devotional singing, and cultural performances create an authentic atmosphere that transports worshippers to their ancestral roots. The temple’s community kitchen serves traditional prasadam to all attendees, fostering the spirit of unity and sharing.

Address: 45-57 Bowne Street, Flushing, NY 11355 (adjacent to Hindu Temple Society) Contact: (718) 460-8484 | Website Upcoming: Annabhishekam on November 4 (tonight)—perfect prelude to tomorrow’s festivities!

3. Brooklyn Hindu Temple, Brooklyn

Serving Brooklyn’s vibrant Hindu community, the Brooklyn Hindu Temple celebrates Karthika Pournami with comprehensive religious ceremonies honoring multiple deities. The temple conducts special pujas for Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, Goddess Durga, and other deities throughout the day. The celebration includes Rudra Abhishekam, homams, and extended aartis that showcase the rich diversity of Hindu traditions. The temple’s welcoming facilities accommodate large gatherings while maintaining the sanctity and authenticity of traditional rituals. Devotees from across Brooklyn come to participate in lamp lighting ceremonies and collective worship.

Address: 137-33 84th Drive, Briarwood, NY 11435 (serving Brooklyn area) Contact: (718) 291-9292 | Website

4. BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Queens

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Queens celebrates Karthika Pournami with special devotion to Lord Swaminarayan, while honoring the festival’s broader spiritual significance. The temple observes the entire Kartik month with daily aartis and special prayers, culminating in grand Karthika Pournami celebrations. Devotees participate in kirtan, devotional dancing, and the lighting of countless lamps around the temple premises. The celebration includes special lectures on the significance of Kartik month, Bhagavad Gita discussions, and traditional prasadam distribution. The temple’s serene location provides a peaceful setting for spiritual contemplation and collective worship.

Address: 112-59 101st Avenue, Queens, NY 11419 Contact: (718) 849-5111 | Website Tip: Ongoing Kartik Month prayers—join tomorrow’s climax!

5. Radha Govinda Mandir, East Village, Manhattan

The Radha Govinda Mandir in Manhattan’s East Village stands as one of New York City’s premier Hindu temples, celebrating Karthika Pournami with authentic Vaishnava traditions. The temple conducts elaborate abhishekams for Lord Krishna and Radha, acknowledging the dual significance of this sacred day. Special homams, Sahasranama Archana, and extended puja ceremonies continue throughout the day. The temple’s urban architecture provides a stunning backdrop for the lighting of thousands of diyas during evening celebrations. Devotees from across Manhattan gather to participate in traditional rituals, cultural programs, and community feasts that strengthen bonds within the Hindu community.

Address: 319 East 6th Street, New York, NY 10003 Contact: (212) 674-1647 | Website

6. The Bhakti Center, Lower East Side, Manhattan

The Bhakti Center in Manhattan celebrates Karthika Pournami with special focus on bhakti yoga and devotion to Lord Krishna while honoring Lord Shiva and other deities associated with the festival. The temple performs elaborate pujas, abhishekams, and aartis throughout the day. The diverse Hindu community, along with devotees from varied backgrounds, participates enthusiastically in lamp lighting and collective prayers. The temple’s priests conduct traditional rituals according to bhakti customs, offering a unique cultural perspective on the festival. Special cultural programs, devotional music, and prasadam distribution make the celebration accessible and meaningful to all attendees.

Address: 25 1st Avenue, New York, NY 10003 Contact: (212) 995-9625 | Website

7. Shiva Mandir, Jamaica, Queens

Located in Queens, the Shiva Mandir serves a diverse Hindu population with inclusive Karthika Pournami celebrations. The temple conducts pujas for multiple deities, accommodating various regional traditions and practices. Special abhishekams, homams, and extended darshan hours allow devotees to worship according to their family traditions. The temple’s community focus ensures that families, including children, can participate meaningfully in all celebrations. Educational programs about Karthika Pournami’s significance help younger generations connect with their spiritual heritage. The celebration features devotional singing, cultural performances, and traditional food offerings that bring the community together.

Address: 94-37 222nd Street, Queens Village, NY 11428 (Jamaica area) Contact: (718) 479-2211

8. Shri Shakti Mariammaa Temple, Flushing, Queens

The Shri Shakti Mariammaa Temple in Queens celebrates Karthika Pournami with devotion to Goddess Mariamman while honoring the festival’s traditional significance. The temple conducts special abhishekams, Kakad Aarti, and continuous devotional singing throughout the day. Devotees participate in lamp lighting ceremonies and collective prayers, seeking the goddess’s blessings on this auspicious occasion. The temple’s welcoming atmosphere attracts devotees from all backgrounds, reflecting the universal message of devotion. Traditional prasadam distribution and community service activities embody the festival’s spirit of giving and compassion.

Address: 45-57 Bowne Street, Flushing, NY 11355 Contact: (718) 460-8484

9. Vaishnav Temple of New York, Hempstead, Long Island

Serving Long Island’s Hindu community, the Vaishnav Temple of New York celebrates Karthika Pournami with traditional Pushtimargiya rituals and practices. The temple conducts special abhishekams to Lord Krishna, Sahasranama Archana, and Suprabhatam throughout the day. The celebration attracts devotees from across Nassau County. The temple’s intimate setting creates a powerful atmosphere of devotion where worshippers can closely engage with rituals and feel deeply connected to the divine. Special arrangements ensure that families can participate comfortably in the extended celebrations.

Address: 140 Baldwin Road, Hempstead, NY 11550 Contact: (516) 483-5300

10. Hindu Temple of Long Island, Bethpage, Long Island

The Hindu Temple of Long Island in Bethpage serves the area’s diverse Hindu community with comprehensive Karthika Pournami celebrations. The temple conducts pujas for various deities, reflecting Long Island’s multicultural Hindu population. Special abhishekams, lamp lighting ceremonies, and traditional aartis create a festive spiritual atmosphere. The temple organizes educational sessions about the festival’s significance, making traditions accessible to New York-born generations. Community feasts and cultural programs foster unity among devotees from different regional backgrounds. The celebration showcases how Hindu traditions thrive in New York’s suburban lifestyle.

Address: 63 Eckersley Avenue, Bethpage, NY 11714 Contact: (516) 579-2930 | Website

11. Hindu Temple of Tri-State, White Plains, Westchester County

Located in Westchester, the Hindu Temple of Tri-State celebrates Karthika Pournami with special devotion and traditional rituals. The temple conducts elaborate pujas, abhishekams, and homams throughout the day. The temple provides a sacred space for spiritual contemplation and collective worship. Devotees from across the tri-state area participate in lamp lighting ceremonies and traditional prayers. The temple’s facilities and traditional practices create a perfect balance between accessibility and authenticity.

Address: 100 Wiedhopf Road, White Plains, NY 10604 Contact: (914) 428-3080 | Website

12. Broome Street Ganesha Temple, SoHo, Manhattan

The Broome Street Ganesha Temple in Manhattan celebrates Karthika Pournami with special emphasis on Lord Ganesha worship while honoring all aspects of the festival. The temple performs elaborate Ganesha pujas, Lalita Sahasranama, and special abhishekams throughout the day. The celebration attracts devotees who follow various traditions, along with those from diverse Hindu backgrounds. Traditional lamp lighting, devotional singing, and cultural programs create an atmosphere of divine energy and spiritual devotion. The temple’s central Manhattan location makes it accessible to devotees from across the city.

Address: 263 Broome Street, New York, NY 10002 Contact: (212) 529-1060

Common Celebration Elements Across New York Temples

Hindu temples across New York share several common features in their Karthika Pournami celebrations:

Special Rituals: Most temples conduct extended puja ceremonies, abhishekams, and homams dedicated to various deities, particularly Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Kartikeya.

Lamp Lighting: The tradition of lighting thousands of oil lamps remains central to celebrations, with devotees participating in collective lamp lighting ceremonies during New York’s crisp autumn evenings.

Extended Hours: Temples typically offer extended darshan timings, allowing devotees to visit throughout the day and evening, accommodating work and family schedules.

Community Gathering: The festival serves as an important community event where Hindu families come together, strengthening cultural and religious bonds in New York’s multicultural society.

Prasadam Distribution: Traditional food offerings are distributed to all attendees, maintaining the spirit of sharing and community fellowship.

Cultural Programs: Many temples organize devotional music, bhajans, classical performances, and spiritual discourses that engage devotees of all ages.

Inclusive Celebrations: Reflecting New York’s diverse Hindu population, temples accommodate various regional traditions from India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and other countries.

Environmental Consciousness: Many New York temples emphasize eco-friendly celebrations, using sustainable materials and minimizing environmental impact.

How to Participate in Karthika Pournami Celebrations in New York

If you’re planning to visit a temple for Karthika Pournami, here are helpful tips for the New York context:

Check Temple Schedules: Contact your local temple in advance to confirm celebration timings and special programs. Most temples announce schedules through websites, Facebook, and community groups.

Seasonal Weather: November in New York brings cool autumn temperatures, so dress warmly for outdoor lamp lighting and evening events.

Plan Your Travel: Utilize the subway, buses, or trains, as many major temples are accessible by public transport. Flushing temples are easily reachable via the 7 train.

Arrive Early: Temples experience high attendance during Karthika Pournami. Arriving early ensures full participation in rituals and parking availability.

Bring Offerings: Traditional offerings include flowers, fruits, coconuts, and oil for lamps. Many temples also have canteen facilities where you can purchase puja items.

Dress Modestly: Wear traditional or modest clothing as a sign of respect. Remove shoes before entering the temple.

Photography Etiquette: Check temple policies on photography, especially during pujas. Many temples allow photos in certain areas but not near deities.

Participate Actively: Engage in collective prayers, lamp lighting, and other rituals to fully experience the festival’s spiritual significance.

Volunteer Opportunities: Many New York temples welcome volunteers to help with celebrations, offering a meaningful way to serve the community.

Health Practices: Follow any guidelines temples may have in place for community safety.

The Growing Significance of Karthika Pournami in New York

New York’s Hindu community has grown significantly over recent decades, with over 200,000 Hindus in the state, making Hinduism a vibrant part of the city’s multicultural fabric. This growth has transformed festivals like Karthika Pournami into major community celebrations that contribute to New York’s diverse identity.

For first-generation immigrants from India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and other countries, Karthika Pournami celebrations provide vital connections to their spiritual heritage. These gatherings offer opportunities to maintain cultural practices and pass traditions to New York-born children who are navigating dual cultural identities.

For second and third-generation Hindu New Yorkers, temple celebrations provide accessible entry points to understanding their ancestral traditions. Many temples have developed educational programs, youth groups, and bilingual resources that make ancient festivals relevant and meaningful to young New Yorkers.

New York temples have successfully adapted traditional celebrations to the local context while maintaining spiritual authenticity. Weekend programming accommodates the city’s fast-paced work culture, English-language explanations make rituals accessible, and community activities reflect New York’s values of inclusiveness and participation.

Regional Variations in New York Celebrations

Queens: Home to New York’s largest Hindu population, Queens’ temples offer diverse celebration styles, from grand ceremonies in Flushing to community gatherings in Jamaica.

Manhattan: Urban temples like those in the East Village and SoHo blend traditional practices with city energy, offering sophisticated celebrations that attract diverse audiences.

Brooklyn: Temples here celebrate with neighborhood flair, often extending events in community spaces.

Long Island: Suburban temples in Bethpage and Hempstead emphasize family-oriented rituals and mutual support.

Westchester County: Temples like those in White Plains celebrate with warmth and inclusiveness, welcoming all who wish to participate.

Karthika Pournami and New York Multiculturalism

Karthika Pournami celebrations in New York exemplify successful multiculturalism. Many temples welcome non-Hindu New Yorkers to observe and learn about Hindu traditions, promoting interfaith understanding and cultural appreciation. Local authorities often support temple celebrations, recognizing their contribution to community cohesion and cultural diversity.

Schools with significant Hindu student populations increasingly acknowledge major festivals like Karthika Pournami, helping all students understand and respect diverse cultural practices. This recognition strengthens social harmony and helps Hindu New York children feel proud of their heritage.

The festival’s themes of light over darkness, good over evil, and spiritual renewal resonate with universal values that transcend cultural boundaries, making Karthika Pournami accessible and meaningful to New York’s broader population.

Conclusion

Karthika Pournami celebrations at Hindu temples across New York represent a beautiful synthesis of ancient tradition and urban multiculturalism. From the historic Hindu Temple Society of North America in Flushing to community temples in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Long Island, and Westchester, this sacred festival continues to unite Hindu New Yorkers in devotion and cultural celebration.

Whether you’re seeking spiritual fulfillment, cultural connection, or community fellowship, attending Karthika Pournami celebrations at these New York temples offers a profound and enriching experience. As thousands of lamps illuminate temples from borough to borough during New York’s autumn evenings, devotees participate in traditions that bridge continents, generations, and cultures.

The celebration of Karthika Pournami in New York demonstrates how ancient spiritual traditions not only survive but thrive in new contexts, enriching both the Hindu community and New York society. These festivals strengthen cultural identity, promote intergenerational understanding, and contribute to New York’s vibrant multicultural tapestry.

New York’s position in the Northeast means that Karthika Pournami falls during the colorful fall season, symbolizing inner light and renewal—a fitting metaphor for Hinduism’s flourishing in the Empire State. The festival’s celebration across this dynamic state, from bustling Queens to serene Long Island, showcases the adaptability and resilience of Hindu spiritual traditions.

Plan your visit to one of these magnificent temples this Karthika Pournami and be part of a celebration that connects hearts across oceans, honors ancient wisdom, and illuminates New York’s multicultural present and future.

For specific celebration details, timings, and special programs, please contact individual temples directly as schedules may vary each year. Many temples maintain active social media presence and websites with updated information about festival celebrations.