Sharad Purnima, one of the most auspicious and celebrated festivals in Hindu culture, is observed on the full moon night of the Shukla Paksha of the Ashwin month, according to the Hindu lunar calendar. In 2024, Sharad Purnima will be celebrated on October 16 and 17, with the full moon beginning at around 8 PM on October 16 and ending at 5 PM the next day. The night of Sharad Purnima is not just a celestial marvel but also holds immense religious, cultural, and spiritual significance.
Significance of Sharad Purnima
Sharad Purnima, also known as Kojagari Purnima or Ras Purnima, is often associated with the divine play of Lord Krishna with the Gopis, known as "Maha Raas." It is believed that on this night, Lord Krishna performed the divine Raas Leela, a dance of love and devotion, under the light of the full moon in Vrindavan. Devotees remember this event with great devotion and believe that the moonlight on this night carries a special divine energy.
Apart from its association with Lord Krishna, Sharad Purnima is also considered to be the birthday of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, prosperity, and fortune. Hence, it is common for devotees to worship Goddess Lakshmi on this day, seeking her blessings for wealth, prosperity, and good fortune.
The Ritual of Making Kheer
One of the most unique and significant customs of Sharad Purnima is the preparation of Kheer. It is believed to be highly auspicious to make kheer on this night and leave it under the open sky, exposing it to the soothing and nourishing rays of the moon.
According to ancient beliefs, the rays of the full moon on Sharad Purnima carry nectar (Amrit) that enhances the qualities of food and imparts health benefits. The kheer, when kept under the moonlight for the whole night, is said to absorb the moon's blessings. It is then consumed the next morning as prasad (holy offering) by family members.
This ritual is believed to not only improve one's health but also enhance good fortune. Many also believe that consuming kheer on Sharad Purnima can help calm the mind and body, as well as bring mental peace and physical vitality.
Worship of Goddess Lakshmi
The night of Sharad Purnima is particularly significant for the worship of Goddess Lakshmi. Devotees believe that Goddess Lakshmi roams the Earth on this night, blessing those who are awake and engaged in prayers and devotional activities. It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi asks, "Ko jagarti?" meaning "Who is awake?" and bestows her blessings upon those who remain vigilant and devoted.
People chant the mantras of Goddess Lakshmi and offer prayers to invite her into their homes, believing that this can bring prosperity and remove financial obstacles. Some devotees also stay up all night, engaging in bhajans, prayers, and other forms of worship to gain the favor of the goddess.
The Fast of Sharad Purnima
Many devotees observe a fast on Sharad Purnima, seeking spiritual purity and divine blessings. The fast typically begins early on the day of Sharad Purnima and is broken after the worship of the moon and Goddess Lakshmi at night.
Fasting on Sharad Purnima is believed to be highly auspicious and helps in cleansing the body and mind. It is also said that fasting on this day can remove past sins and enhance one’s spiritual growth. Devotees often visit temples dedicated to Lord Krishna and Goddess Lakshmi, offer prayers, and partake in community feasts and celebrations.
Bathing and Donation Rituals
Sharad Purnima is not only about fasting and worship, but also about the practice of daan (donation). On this day, it is considered highly virtuous to offer donations, especially food, clothes, and other essentials to the needy. The act of giving is believed to please the gods and bring good karma.
On the morning of October 17, as Sharad Purnima comes to an end, devotees typically take a holy dip in rivers or lakes, believing that this act purifies the soul and helps them attain spiritual merit. After the bath, donations are made to Brahmins and the less fortunate, completing the spiritual cycle of receiving and giving blessings.
Sharad Purnima is a day of immense spiritual and cultural importance, offering devotees an opportunity to seek divine blessings and enjoy the celestial beauty of the full moon.
