Sharad Purnima, also known as Kojagiri Purnima, is one of the most auspicious festivals in the Hindu calendar. Celebrated on the full moon night of the Ashwin month, this festival holds deep spiritual and cultural significance across India. In 2025, Sharad Purnima falls on Monday, October 6.
🌕 Significance of Sharad Purnima
Sharad Purnima marks the end of the monsoon season and the beginning of the harvest season. It is believed that on this night, the moon is at its fullest and brightest, emitting all sixteen "kala(s)" or phases, symbolizing spiritual completeness, wellness, and abundance. Devotees observe this night with fasting, prayers, and rituals to seek blessings from Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Vishnu, and the Moon God.
📖 Legends Associated with Sharad Purnima
1. Lord Krishna's Raas Leela
One of the most cherished legends associated with Sharad Purnima is the Raas Leela of Lord Krishna. It is believed that on this night, Lord Krishna performed the Raas Leela with Radha and the Gopis on the banks of the Yamuna River. This divine dance symbolizes the eternal bond of love and devotion between the Lord and his devotees.
2. Goddess Lakshmi's Visit
In many regions, Sharad Purnima is also known as Kojagiri Purnima. According to tradition, Goddess Lakshmi visits the homes of devotees on this night, blessing them with wealth and prosperity. People stay awake, sing devotional songs, and offer prayers to invite her blessings.
🕯️ Rituals and Practices
1. Observing the Fast (Vrat)
Devotees observe a fast on Sharad Purnima, abstaining from food and water. The fast is broken the next morning after performing the rituals.
2. Preparing and Offering Kheer
A significant ritual is the preparation of kheer (a sweet dish made of rice and milk). It is believed that placing the kheer under the moonlight on this night infuses it with divine properties. Devotees consume this kheer as prasad, seeking blessings for health and prosperity.
3. Night Vigil (Jagran)
Staying awake throughout the night is a common practice. Devotees sing bhajans, chant mantras, and engage in devotional activities to please the deities.
4. Moon Worship
The full moon is worshipped on this night. Devotees offer prayers to the Moon God, seeking his blessings for mental peace and spiritual growth.
🗓️ Sharad Purnima 2025 Details
- Date: Monday, October 6, 2025
- Purnima Tithi Begins: 12:23 PM on October 6
- Purnima Tithi Ends: 9:16 AM on October 7
- Moonrise Time: Approximately 5:31 PM on October 6
🌟 Regional Celebrations
1. Maharashtra and Goa
In Maharashtra and Goa, Sharad Purnima is celebrated as Kojagiri Purnima. People stay awake, sing songs, and offer prayers to Goddess Lakshmi. Special dishes are prepared, and the night is filled with cultural programs.
2. Uttar Pradesh
In Uttar Pradesh, especially in Varanasi, devotees observe the night vigil by the banks of the Ganges River. They sing devotional songs and offer prayers to seek blessings from the Moon God.
3. West Bengal
In West Bengal, the festival is celebrated with enthusiasm. People prepare traditional sweets, and cultural programs are organized. The night is marked by devotional singing and dancing.
🌌 Astrological Significance
Astrologically, Sharad Purnima is considered highly auspicious. The full moon on this night is believed to emit divine rays filled with healing and nourishing energy. It is considered an ideal time for spiritual practices, meditation, and manifesting desires.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the significance of fasting on Sharad Purnima?
Fasting on Sharad Purnima is believed to purify the mind and body, making it receptive to divine blessings. It is a form of penance and devotion.
Q2: Why is kheer placed under the moonlight?
Kheer is placed under the moonlight on Sharad Purnima because it is believed that the moon's rays on this night have healing properties, which infuse the kheer with divine energy.
Q3: Can non-Hindus participate in Sharad Purnima celebrations?
Yes, Sharad Purnima is a festival that celebrates universal values of love, devotion, and prosperity. People from all communities are welcome to participate in the celebrations.
Q4: Are there any specific rituals for different zodiac signs?
Yes, astrologers suggest specific rituals and practices for each zodiac sign to harness the cosmic energies of Sharad Purnima effectively
Q5: How is Sharad Purnima different from other Purnimas?
Sharad Purnima is unique because it is the only full moon night when the moon is believed to emit all sixteen kalas, making it spiritually significant.
🕊️ Conclusion
Sharad Purnima is a festival that combines spirituality, mythology, and cultural traditions. It is a time to seek blessings, engage in devotional practices, and celebrate the abundance of life. Whether through fasting, offering kheer, or staying awake in vigil, the essence of Sharad Purnima lies in devotion and gratitude.
May this Sharad Purnima bring prosperity, health, and spiritual growth to all.