Sharad Purnima 2024 is a significant Hindu festival celebrated on the full moon night of the Ashvin month, marking the arrival of autumn. Also known as Sharad Poonam, Raas Purnima, or Ashwin Purnima, this day is considered to be filled with auspicious energy. Devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity and offer prayers to the Moon God, Chandra. Many also observe fasting to mark the occasion.
Date and Time of Puja
Sharad Purnima 2024 will be celebrated on October 16. According to Drik Panchang, the Purnima Tithi will begin at 08:40 PM on October 16 and end at 04:55 PM on October 17. The moonrise is expected at 5:05 PM on October 16.
Significance of Sharad Purnima
Sharad Purnima is the only day in the year when, according to Vedic astrology, the moon shines with all sixteen Kalas (qualities), symbolising an ideal human personality. In Hinduism, these Kalas are attributes of completeness, with Lord Krishna being born with all sixteen and Lord Ram possessing twelve. On this day, the moon’s rays are believed to be equivalent to amrit (divine nectar), which is why the moon god is worshipped.
Rituals of Sharad Purnima
One key tradition associated with Sharad Purnima is preparing kheer (a sweet rice dish), which is left under the moonlight to absorb its healing properties. It is believed that the moon’s rays bless the kheer, making it beneficial for both the body and soul. After prayers in the evening, this kheer is consumed and distributed as prasad (holy offering) the following morning.
Sharad Purnima 2024 not only celebrates the moon’s divine qualities but also embodies spiritual healing and prosperity for devotees.
