Sharad Purnima, also known as Ashvin Purnima or Kojagiri Purnima, is a significant Hindu festival that falls on the full moon night of the Ashwin month in the Hindu calendar. This festival is widely celebrated in India, particularly in maharashtra, gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and some other regions, and is associated with a variety of religious, cultural, and spiritual practices. Here’s everything you need to know about Sharad purnima 2025.

1. Date and Timing of Sharad purnima 2025

In 2025, Sharad purnima will be observed on the night of october 14 (Tuesday), with the full moon (Purnima) occurring on this night.

· Date: october 14, 2025

· Time for purnima Tithi (Full Moon): The purnima Tithi will begin at 10:58 AM on october 14 and will end at 8:24 AM on october 15, 2025.

Since the rituals of Sharad purnima are traditionally performed at night when the moon is fully visible, devotees typically begin their observances after sunset.

2. Significance of Sharad Purnima

Sharad purnima holds immense spiritual significance for Hindus, particularly in relation to the moon and health benefits associated with the full moon's light. Here's why it's special:

· Full moon Night: The night of Sharad purnima is considered the brightest full moon of the year. It is believed that the moon’s rays on this night are especially powerful, and they have healing properties that can boost health and well-being. The full moon of Sharad purnima is said to have a direct influence on the mental and physical well-being of people.

· Kojagiri Purnima: The festival is also known as Kojagiri Purnima, where “Kojagiri” means "Who is awake?" In this context, it is believed that Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, roams the earth on this night, blessing those who stay awake and offer prayers.

· Harvest Festival: The festival is also seen as the celebration of the harvest season, as it coincides with the time of the year when crops are harvested, particularly in rural areas. The evening of Sharad purnima is thought to bring good fortune and prosperity to people and their homes.

3. Rituals and Customs of Sharad Purnima

Sharad purnima is a time for devotion, spiritual practices, and celebration. Below are the key rituals and customs associated with this festival:

1. Fasting and Night Vigil

· Vrat (Fasting): Many devotees observe a fast on Sharad Purnima. Women, in particular, fast without consuming food and only drink water or milk on this day. The fast is believed to help purify the body and soul.

· Night Vigil (Jagran): It is a common custom to stay awake all night on Sharad Purnima, as it is believed that Goddess lakshmi visits the homes of those who remain awake and offer prayers.

· Worship of the Moon: Devotees perform moon worship on this night, offering prayers to the moon (Chandradev) to seek health, wealth, and happiness.

2. Special Offerings

· Kheer: A key tradition during Sharad purnima is the preparation and offering of Kheer (sweet rice pudding) made from milk, rice, sugar, and dry fruits. Devotees place this kheer under the open sky to allow it to absorb the moon’s rays, believed to enhance its healing properties.

· Pooja (Prayer Rituals): Devotees perform pujas with flowers, fruits, and incense sticks, offering prayers to the moon for health, prosperity, and peace in the coming months.

3. Celebrating with dance and Music

In some regions, Kojagiri Purnima is celebrated with folk songs and traditional dances. people gather in the evenings to enjoy community festivities. Garba (a form of traditional dance) is often performed, especially in gujarat and maharashtra, making the evening vibrant and full of energy.

4. Charity and Giving

Another significant aspect of the festival is charity. Many people distribute food, clothes, and money to the less fortunate on this day. It is believed that performing acts of kindness and charity brings blessings and goodwill.

4. Importance of kheer on Sharad Purnima

As mentioned earlier, one of the most important rituals on Sharad purnima is the preparation of Kheer, which is left outside under the moonlight. The kheer, after being exposed to the moon’s rays, is believed to become “charged” with positive energy, offering the following benefits:

· Health Benefits: It is said that the moon’s energy on this night has healing powers, and consuming the kheer the next morning can improve immunity and overall health.

· Spiritual Benefits: The act of making kheer and leaving it under the moonlight is also believed to purify the mind and spirit. It is a symbol of offering gratitude for prosperity and abundance.

5. Regional Celebrations

· Maharashtra and Gujarat: In these states, Sharad Purnima is celebrated with much fanfare. people hold night vigils, sing devotional songs, and dance in circles to celebrate the harvest and worship the moon.

· Uttar Pradesh and Bihar: people perform traditional poojas, offer prayers to the moon, and distribute kheer to neighbors and family members.

· Tamil Nadu: The festival is celebrated with a focus on spiritual growth and meditation.

6. Scientific Perspective

On a scientific note, the full moon during Sharad purnima is known for its increased luminosity, which might have an impact on both the atmosphere and earth’s natural processes. In traditional Ayurvedic practices, this night is considered a time when the earth’s energy is in perfect harmony, and the human body can absorb this energy for optimal health.

Conclusion

Sharad purnima 2025 is a celebration of the full moon, spiritual growth, and gratitude for abundance. It’s a time for personal reflection, devotion, and rituals aimed at inviting prosperity, health, and peace. Whether you are observing the fast, participating in the moon-worship rituals, or enjoying the festive atmosphere with your family and community, Sharad purnima holds a deep significance for those who follow its traditions.

 

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