Sharad Purnima (also known as Kojagiri Purnima or Kaumudi Purnima) is a significant Hindu festival celebrated on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Hindu month of Ashwin, which usually falls in September or October. It marks the end of the monsoon season and the onset of the harvest period in India. This day holds both spiritual and cultural importance in various regions of India.
Key Aspects of Sharad Purnima:
Religious Significance:
It is believed that on Sharad Purnima, the moon showers its healing rays on Earth, and the night is filled with divine energy.
According to Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna performed the famous Raas Lila (a divine dance with the Gopis) on this night, making it a day of celebration for devotees of Krishna.
Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, is also worshipped on this day. People believe that Goddess Lakshmi visits homes on Sharad Purnima night and blesses those who stay awake and offer prayers.
Kojagiri Vrat:
In some regions, Sharad Purnima is also called Kojagiri Purnima. "Kojagiri" means "who is awake?" In many parts of India, people observe the Kojagiri Vrat and stay awake throughout the night in devotion, seeking blessings for prosperity and good health.
It's a popular belief that those who remain awake on this night will be blessed by the goddess of wealth.
Cultural Celebrations:
Milk and Rice Kheer: A special tradition of the day is preparing and offering kheer (a sweet rice pudding made with milk and sugar) under the moonlight. It is believed that the moonlight enhances the medicinal properties of the kheer, making it nourishing for health.
In many places, cultural gatherings, singing, and dancing are organized to celebrate the beauty of the full moon and the blessings of the season.
Scientific Belief:
From a scientific perspective, Sharad Purnima occurs when the moon is at its brightest and closest to Earth, believed to have healing effects due to the lunar rays.
Sharad Purnima is thus a celebration that combines spirituality, health benefits, and cultural joy.
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