Sharad Purnima, an important full moon day in the Hindu calendar, is marked by deep devotion and spiritual significance. This year it will be celebrated on Wednesday, October 16, 2024. This festival holds a unique place in Hindu tradition as it is believed to be the only day when the moon shines in its full form and all sixteen Kala (phases) can be seen . . It is said that Lord Krishna, the complete incarnation of Lord Vishnu, was born with all sixteen Kala, while Lord Rama was born with twelve.

Important dates and times

• Sharad Purnima: Wednesday, October 16, 2024
• Moonrise on Sharad Purnima day: 5:06 PM
• Purnima Tithi starts: 8:40 PM on October 16, 2024
• Purnima Tithi Ends: 4:55 PM on October 17, 2024

Meaning of Sharad Purnima

This festival is closely associated with the worship of Chandra, the moon god. Traditionally, newlywed women who undertake to observe Purnimasi fasting throughout the year begin their fast on this auspicious day. In Gujarat, the festival is fondly known as Sharad Poonam. The moon’s rays are believed to possess healing properties that can nourish both the body and the soul. A popular custom is to prepare a sweet dish known as Rice Kheer (made from cow’s milk, rice and sugar) and leave it in the moonlight overnight. This kheer, energized by the glow of the moon, is consumed as prasad (blessed food) the next morning and shared among the family members.

In the Brij region, Sharad Purnima is also called Raas Purnima, commemorating the night when Lord Krishna performed the divine dance of love known as Maha-Raas. According to mythology, the Gopis (female devotees), enchanted by Krishna’s flute, left their homes to join him in the forests of Vrindavan, where they danced all night. It is said that Krishna created multiple forms of himself to guide each Gopi. According to legend, Krishna extended the night into one night of Lord Brahma, which is equivalent to billions of human years.

Kojagara Vrat and Rituals

The Kojagara Vrat is an essential aspect of Sharad Purnima. Here are the main rituals observed on this day:

• Fasting: Devotees usually observe a day-long fast, abstaining from food and water until the moon rises. This fast is believed to cleanse the mind, body and soul and prepare devotees to receive the blessings of the Moon God.
• Moon Worship: The worship of Chandra is an integral part of the rituals. During puja (worship) offerings such as fruits, sweets and rice are made.
• Preparation of Rice Kheer: The preparation of Rice Kheer with cow’s milk, rice and sugar is an important tradition. It is left to absorb the rays of the moon at night.
• Kheer as Prasad: The next morning, the moon-blessed kheer is shared among the family members as prasad, which is believed to have nourishing and healing properties.
• Stay awake: Devotees often stay awake all night, especially during the Kojagara Vrat, to welcome the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi and pray for wealth and prosperity.
• Singing and prayers: Mantras and hymns dedicated to Lord Krishna and Chandra are sung. Devotees pray for health, wealth and happiness.
• Special puja: In the evening, a special puja is held, especially in regions where Kojagara Vrat is observed, with prayers to Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity and happiness.