Sharad Purnima 2024: Rituals, significance, fasting, and more

Sharad Purnima is one of those festivals that hits differently—full moon night, good vibes, and lots of positive energy in the air. Also known as Sharad Poonam, Raas Purnima, Kojagra, or Ashwin Purnima, this night is all about worshipping Goddess Lakshmi and even giving a shout out to the Moon (yep, it’s that cosmic). And if you still don’t know, then buckle up, cause it’s today, October 16, 2024.

Moonrise deets

According to Drik Panchang, this year, the moon rises at 5:05 PM on October 16, while the Purnima Tithi starts at 8:40 PM and wraps up by 4:55 PM on October 17.

Vedic vibes

Sharad Purnima isn’t just another full moon night—it’s the only time in the year when the moon shines with all sixteen Kalas. Each Kala is connected to a unique human quality, and together, they’re believed to create the ultimate “ideal” personality. No pressure, but if you want to level up spiritually, this is your moment.

Kojagara vrat and must-dos

Fasting fun:?Devotees usually fast the whole day, going all out by skipping food and water until moonrise. It’s believed that fasting purifies the mind, body, and soul, making you ready to receive some serious lunar blessings.

Moonlit kheer: Here’s the yummiest part of Sharad Purnima—Rice Kheer! It’s a whole ritual where you whip up kheer with cow’s milk, rice, and sugar, then leave it out to soak up the moon’s rays overnight. The next morning, this moon-charged kheer turns into prasad, packed with all sorts of good vibes and believed to have healing properties.

Stay woke:?Devotees stay awake throughout the night for the Kojagara Vrat, welcoming Goddess Lakshmi’s blessings for wealth and prosperity. Consider it a spiritual all-nighter!

Chanting chills:?Mantras dedicated to Lord Krishna and the Moon God are chanted while offering fruits, sweets, and rice during the puja. You pray for health, happiness, and some extra cash flow.

Couples’ special:?In some places, like Bihar (mainly Maithils), a special evening puja is done for newly married couples. It’s all about setting them up with Goddess Lakshmi’s blessings for a prosperous and lucky future.

So, get ready for a night of moonlit magic, Lakshmi blessings, and of course, kheer.