Sharad Purnima 2024: Date, Rituals and Spiritual Significance

Sharad Purnima , one of the most revered Purnimas in the Hindu calendar , marks the arrival of autumn and holds deep religious significance. Celebrated on the full moon day of Shukla Paksha in the Ashwin month, it is also known as Sharad Poonam, Raas Purnima, or Kojagar Purnima. This festival is associated with divine occurrences, spiritual rituals , and the unique practice of offering kheer (sweet rice pudding) under the moonlight.

# Date and Moonrise Time for Sharad Purnima 2024

Sharad Purnima will be observed on October 16, 2024. According to the Hindu calendar, the Purnima Tithi begins at 8:40 PM on October 16 and ends at 4:55 PM the next day. The moonrise time for this auspicious day is 5:06 PM.

# Mythological Significance

Sharad Purnima is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. It is believed that Lord Krishna performed the divine Raas Leela with the gopis on this day, hence the name Raas Purnima. Another widely accepted belief is that Goddess Lakshmi descends to Earth during Sharad Purnima night, blessing devotees with wealth and prosperity, which is why it is also called Kojagar Purnima. Worshiping Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu on this night is believed to bring good fortune and abundance.

# Rituals and Traditions

• Offerings to the Moon: Devotees offer water and kheer to the moon while chanting sacred mantras, invoking divine blessings.
• Worship of Goddess Lakshmi: Prayers are offered to Goddess Lakshmi, seeking wealth and prosperity. Lamps are lit to invite positive energy into the home.
• Fasting and Spiritual Growth: Many devotees observe fasts on this day, as it is considered highly auspicious for spiritual growth and inner peace.
• Temple Visits: Visiting temples is also a common practice to receive blessings and experience tranquility.

# Special Tradition: Kheer Under the Moonlight

One of the most unique customs of Sharad Purnima is preparing kheer and leaving it under the moonlight. It is believed that the moon’s rays on this night have medicinal and purifying properties. By placing kheer in glass, clay, or silver vessels under the open sky, the dish is infused with divine energy. The kheer is then offered to Lord Vishnu in the early morning, after which it is consumed and shared with loved ones, symbolizing the transfer of divine blessings.

# Dos and Don’ts for Sharad Purnima

What to Do:

• Offer water to the moon while chanting mantras.
• Worship Goddess Lakshmi and light lamps at home.
• Donate to those in need and read religious scriptures.

What to Avoid:

• Avoid negative thoughts, disputes, and anger.
• Refrain from consuming tamasic food such as garlic or onions.
• Do not wear black clothes; opt for white attire, symbolizing purity.

# The Spiritual Power of Moonlight

On Sharad Purnima, the moon is said to shine with all 16 phases or ‘kalas,’ making its rays especially potent. These rays are believed to have nectar-like qualities that purify the body and soul. The tradition of keeping kheer under the moonlight taps into this belief, with the moon’s rays said to add medicinal and positive energy to the dish, making it a blessed offering.

Sharad Purnima is more than just a festival - it’s an opportunity for spiritual renewal, divine connection, and welcoming abundance into our lives. By observing its rituals with devotion, devotees can experience both spiritual and material prosperity.