Sharad Purnima 2024: A Night of Divine Blessings and Prosperity
Sharad Purnima, also known as Kojagiri Purnima, marks the night when the moon shines its brightest, blessing the earth with peace and prosperity. This year, Sharad Purnima will be celebrated on October 17, 2024, a night considered highly auspicious for worship and spiritual practices. On this full moon night, it is believed that the moonlight has healing properties, and offering Kheer under the moon blesses one with health and wealth.
Why is Sharad Purnima Celebrated?
Sharad Purnima holds great significance in Hindu tradition, especially for those seeking divine blessings for health, wealth, and happiness. According to ancient scriptures, on this day, Goddess Lakshmi descends from the heavens to bless those who are awake and devoted. This is why the festival is also known as Kojagiri, meaning ‘who is awake?’ – symbolizing those who stay up praying and seeking her grace.
Sharad Purnima is also connected to Lord Krishna, as it marks the night of the famous Raas Leela with the Gopis, a night where divine love and devotion were celebrated under the moonlight.
Major Highlights of Sharad Purnima:
Kheer Offering:
A traditional offering of Kheer (sweet rice pudding) is placed under the moonlight, believed to be blessed with the moon’s divine healing power.
Moonlight Rituals:
Devotees sit under the moon, offering prayers to Goddess Lakshmi for health, wealth, and prosperity.
Festivities Across India:
In various regions, devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi, recite mantras, and perform night-long vigils to seek her blessings.
Raas Leela:
In some regions, Sharad Purnima is celebrated with devotional songs and dance, representing Lord Krishna’s Raas Leela with the Gopis.
How is Sharad Purnima Celebrated?
Northern India:
Devotees prepare Kheer, which is kept outside under the moonlight overnight, and is consumed the next day as prasad, symbolizing divine blessings.
West Bengal and Odisha:
Sharad Purnima coincides with the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, with families performing rituals at home and distributing sweets.
Maharashtra:
Known as Kojagiri Purnima, families gather to enjoy Kheer, pray for prosperity, and stay awake, believing that Goddess Lakshmi visits the homes of the faithful.
Bihar and Uttar Pradesh:
Many devotees take holy dips in rivers and ponds and offer special prayers to seek blessings for a prosperous future.
Worldwide Celebrations:
Indian communities across the world celebrate Sharad Purnima with devotion, offering prayers, and sharing special meals like Kheer under the moonlight.
Let’s celebrate Sharad Purnima 2024 by embracing the full moon’s divine blessings. May this sacred night bring peace, health, and prosperity to your life. Share the joy and festive spirit with your loved ones through Badhaai Do, and let the moonlight fill your world with happiness!
