Sharad Purnima, a Hindu festival also known as Ashvin Purnima and Kojagiri Purnima, is observed on the Hindu calendar month Ashwin's full moon night, which usually falls in October. On this day, devotees worship the Goddess of wealth, Lakshmi and Chandra Dev.
The festival is observed in numerous states of India, including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh. In Maharashtra and West Bengal, it is also known as Kojagiri Purnima. On the occasion of the revered festival, know all about its significance and rituals, time and much more.
Ritual and time of Sharad Purnima
Sharad Purnima is also known by other names, such as Navanna Purnima and Kaumudi Purnima. On this day, devotees observe a fast as the night of Sharad Purnima is considered a special one because it is believed that the Moon shines brightly and appears full in size. According to the Drik Panchange, the festival will be observed on Wednesday (October 16) at 8:40 pm and end on October 17 at 4:55 pm.
Wishing everyone a joyful Sharad Purnima! May the radiant light of the full moon bring peace, good health, and prosperity into your life. pic.twitter.com/NPKOnOWovu
— Shankar Chaudhary (@ChaudhryShankar) October 16, 2024
Devotees from across the nation take holy dips in the river and keep fast. They also prepare rice kheer by using Ganga Jal. After preparing the kher, they keep it under the moonlight for the entire night because it is believed that keeping the kheer under the moonlight during the day boosts immunity, and devotees receive divine blessings. People also make the Panchamrit, a mixture of milk, curd, Tulsi and sugar, and offer it to the deity.
Sharad Purnima 2024: Date, Significance, Muhurat And All You Need To Know
Significance of Sharad Purnima
An auspicious celebration called Sharad Purnima is regarded as one of the most important Purnima. On this day, the moon passes fairly close to Earth. According to mythology, on Sharad Purnima, the moon emerges with sixteen kalas, each of which stands for a human attribute. It's also thought that the day signifies the start of winter and the conclusion of summer.