Sharad Purnima 2024: Date, Significance, and Rituals
What is Sharad Purnima?
Sharad Purnima, also known as Kojagari Purnima or Kaumudi Purnima, is an important Hindu festival celebrated during the full moon night in the month of Ashwin, marking the end of the monsoon and the onset of autumn. The festival holds cultural, spiritual, and medicinal significance. It is believed that the moon on this night shines with all sixteen of its Kalas (virtues) and its rays have healing properties. Many regions celebrate it differently, with Maharashtra calling it Kojagiri Purnima, while the Brij region marks it with Raas Leela in honor of Lord Krishna【6】【7】.
Date and Timings of Sharad Purnima 2024
Date: Wednesday, October 16, 2024
Purnima Tithi Begins: 8:40 PM, October 16
Purnima Tithi Ends: 4:55 PM, October 17
Moonrise: 5:05 PM, October 16【9】【10】.
Significance and Rituals
Worship of Goddess Lakshmi: On this night, people worship Goddess Lakshmi, believing she blesses those who remain awake with wealth and prosperity【8】.
Moonlight Kheer Ritual: A traditional practice involves preparing rice kheer, which is left overnight under the moonlight. Devotees believe that the moon’s rays infuse the kheer with healing properties. It is consumed the next morning as prasad【9】【7】.
Fasting and Night Vigil: Devotees observe a fast and stay awake all night, engaging in prayers, bhajans, and cultural activities like singing and dancing, especially in Maharashtra and Gujarat【10】.
Raas Leela Celebrations: In Mathura and Vrindavan, the festival is celebrated with Raas Leela performances to honor the divine dance of Krishna and the Gopis【8】.
Holy Baths: In some regions, people take ritual baths in holy rivers like the Ganga to purify the mind and body【9】.
Table: Key Information for Sharad Purnima 2024
Aspect | Details |
Date | October 16, 2024 (Wednesday) |
Moonrise Time | 5:05 PM |
Purnima Tithi Start | 8:40 PM, October 16 |
Purnima Tithi End | 4:55 PM, October 17 |
Other Names | Kojagari Purnima, Kaumudi Purnima |
Deities Worshipped | Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Krishna |
Major Rituals | Fasting, Moonlight Kheer, Lakshmi Puja |
Conclusion
Sharad Purnima 2024 offers a night of spiritual awakening, joy, and prosperity. Whether it is through participating in Raas Leela, worshipping Goddess Lakshmi, or preparing kheer under the moonlight, the festival invites devotees to celebrate health, wealth, and love. It also encourages introspection and connection with divine energies, marking a perfect blend of tradition and spirituality【8】【10】.
If you need further details or wish to explore personal puja suggestions, feel free to consult resources from astrologers or online puja services【9】【7】.
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