Overview of Sharad Poornima in India

Sharad Poornima, also known as Kojagiri Purnima, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated on the full moon day of the month of Ashwin, which typically falls in October. In 2024, it will be observed on October 16. This festival marks the arrival of autumn and is associated with various cultural and religious observances across India.

Significance

Sharad Poornima holds profound spiritual importance in Hinduism. It is believed that on this day, the moon shines with all sixteen Kalas (phases), symbolizing completeness and perfection. Each Kala represents a specific quality in humans, and it is said that Lord Krishna was born with all sixteen Kalas, embodying the ideal human personality[1][2][5]. The moon’s rays are considered to possess healing properties, nourishing both the body and soul[2][5].

Rituals and Celebrations

1. Worship of Goddess Lakshmi
Devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, seeking her blessings for abundance in their lives. It is customary for devotees to stay awake throughout the night, engaging in prayers and rituals to invite her blessings[1][3].

2. Preparation of Kheer
A central tradition involves preparing rice kheer, a sweet dish made from rice, milk, and sugar. This kheer is placed under the moonlight overnight to absorb its rays, believed to enhance its healing properties. The next morning, it is consumed as Prasad (holy offering) and shared among family and friends[1][4][5].

3. Fasting
Many devotees observe a fast on this day, with some choosing to abstain from food and water while others may consume fruits or coconut water[1][2]. Newlywed women often take part in this fasting ritual for the entire year beginning from Sharad Poornima[3].

4. Cultural Celebrations
In regions like Vrindavan, Sharad Poornima is celebrated as Raas Purnima, commemorating the night when Lord Krishna performed the Maha-Raas dance with the Gopis (cowherd girls). This event symbolizes divine love and community bonding through singing, dancing, and storytelling under the full moon[3][5].

5. Other Observances
Devotees may also take holy dips in sacred rivers like the Ganges, perform meditation, and engage in charitable acts by helping those in need[1][4]. Lighting lamps during this festival is believed to dispel negativity and bring peace[3].

Conclusion

Sharad Poornima is not only a celebration of the full moon but also a time for spiritual reflection, community gathering, and cultural expression. The festival encapsulates themes of prosperity, divine love, and the importance of familial bonds within Hindu traditions.

Sources:
[1] https://www.ganeshaspeaks.com/festival-calendars/information/sharad-purnima-festival-and-various-aspects/
[2] https://www.financialexpress.com/life/lifestyle-sharad-purnima-2024nbsp-date-time-history-and-the-spiritual-importance-of-the-full-moon-festival-3641125/
[3] https://www.business-standard.com/lifestyle/sharad-purnima-2024-why-is-it-celebrated-know-date-significance-and-more-nc-124101500890_1.html
[4] https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/food-news/sharad-purnima-2024-significance-timing-and-why-rice-kheer-is-kept-under-the-moonlight/articleshow/114241242.cms
[5] https://www.indiatoday.in/information/story/sharad-purnima-2024-history-timing-and-all-you-need-to-know-2617678-2024-10-16
[6] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sharad_Purnima
[7] https://www.jagranjosh.com/general-knowledge/sharad-purnima-2024-check-moon-rise-time-today-and-goddess-laxmi-mantra-for-students-1729077343-1
[8] https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/religion/rituals-puja/sharad-purnima-2024-date-time-puja-rituals-and-significance-of-ashwina-purnima/articleshow/114222412.cms