Sharad Purnima 2024: Receive Blessings of Joy, Prosperity, and Health from the Moon

Among the 12 full moons in the year, Sharad Purnima holds special importance. Celebrated in the Hindu month of Ashwin, this full moon night is also known as Kojagiri Purnima in some places. It is a festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Lakshmi. Traditions include offering rice pudding to the moon at night. Sharad Purnima marks the beginning of the Sharad (autumn) season.

Importance of the Festival

On Sharad Purnima, the moon is believed to be fully adorned with sixteen celestial arts and its rays are thought to be filled with nectar. Placing rice pudding or milk in the moonlight is said to enhance its nutritional value. Worshipping Goddess Lakshmi and chanting Shiva mantras are considered auspicious. Observing the moon and chanting moon mantras on this night is believed to bring happiness and prosperity.

Raslila in Vrindavan

According to the Brahmavaivarta Purana, Sharad Purnima is known as the night of Raslila. On this night, a divine dance of devotion is performed under the moon's enchanting light. It is believed that the Gopis first danced with Lord Krishna on this night. Participating in Raslila brings fulfillment of all tasks and happiness.

Observing Sharad Purnima Vrat

To gain wealth and prosperity on Sharad Purnima, observe a fast and worship Goddess Lakshmi. Follow these practices:

Take the vow of fasting in the morning.
Wear white clothes after bathing.
Eat only once during the day.
Light lamps in a Shiva temple in the evening.
Perform the worship of Goddess Lakshmi with white flowers after sunset.
Chant any Lakshmi mantra 108 times.
Recite the Sri Suktam.
At night, read Lalita Sahasranama in the moonlight or chant Lakshmi mantras.

 

Kojagari Puja in Eastern India

In regions like Nepal, Uttar Pradesh, Bengal, Bihar, and Assam, Sharad Purnima is celebrated as Kojagari Purnima. On this day, newlywed women dress up and worship Goddess Lakshmi. Families stay awake at night to sing devotional songs and pray to Goddess Lakshmi. It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi roams the earth in the moonlight and blesses those who stay awake with wealth and prosperity.