Sharad Purnima, also widely celebrated as Kojagiri Purnima or Raas Purnima in various regions, is a captivating Hindu harvest ceremony deeply rooted in spiritual and agricultural significance. This auspicious occasion traditionally unfolds during the seventh month of the lunisolar Hindu calendar, known as Ashwin. Unlike a purely lunar or solar calendar, the lunisolar Hindu calendar meticulously tracks both lunar phases and the solar year, ensuring that festivals like Sharad Purnima align with specific astronomical and seasonal changes, typically coinciding with the transitional months of September and October on the Gregorian calendar.

The essence of Sharad Purnima intertwines deeply with themes of gratitude for abundance, prosperity, and spiritual rejuvenation. It marks the end of the monsoon season and signals a period of fertility and plenitude, naturally leading to celebrations that honor nature's bounty.

The Central Role of Goddess Lakshmi

At the very heart of Sharad Purnima celebrations lies the profound worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the revered Hindu deity of wealth, fortune, and prosperity. Devotees firmly believe that on this specific full moon night, often considered the brightest and most potent of the entire year, Goddess Lakshmi descends to Earth. It is said she makes her rounds, observing those who are vigilant and sincere in their devotion, and showers her blessings upon them. This belief inspires a night of special reverence and spiritual vigilance.

Observances typically involve a day-long fast, which can range from partial to a complete fast, depending on individual tradition and capacity. This is followed by elaborate puja (ritualistic worship) performed in the evening. Offerings to Goddess Lakshmi often include:

• Milk
• Rice
• Seasonal fruits
• Special sweet dishes like kheer (a sweet rice pudding)

A unique practice involves preparing kheer and traditionally leaving it exposed under the moonlight throughout the night. It is believed that the moonlight on Sharad Purnima is imbued with divine properties, and the kheer, absorbing these rays, becomes infused with nectar (Amrit) and healing energies. Consuming this moon-infused kheer is thought to confer health benefits and good fortune.

Beyond Lakshmi: Moonlight and Mystical Beliefs

While Goddess Lakshmi is central, the moon god, Chandra, is also revered on this night. The full moon of Ashwin is considered exceptionally auspicious, believed to radiate life-giving energies. Many devotees engage in a practice of staying awake through the night (known as Kojagari Vrat, derived from "ko jagarti?" meaning "who is awake?") to ensure they do not miss the blessings of the vigilant Goddess Lakshmi and to bathe in the purifying moonlight.

In some traditions, particularly in the Braj region of India, Sharad Purnima holds additional significance as it commemorates the Maharaas or Raas Leela of Lord Krishna with the Gopis. This divine dance symbolizes the pinnacle of spiritual love and devotion, adding another layer of rich cultural and mythological depth to the festival. Thus, Sharad Purnima is a beautiful confluence of agricultural gratitude, devotional fervor, and mystical beliefs, celebrating abundance and divine grace.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sharad Purnima

What is Sharad Purnima also known as?

Sharad Purnima is also widely known as Kojagiri Purnima, Raas Purnima, or Ashwin Purnima, depending on the region and specific cultural emphasis.

Why is Goddess Lakshmi worshipped on Sharad Purnima?

Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, is worshipped on Sharad Purnima because it is believed she descends to Earth on this night to bless her vigilant devotees, bringing fortune and abundance into their lives.

What is the significance of the moon on Sharad Purnima?

The full moon on Sharad Purnima is considered the brightest and most potent of the year. It is widely believed to shower Amrit (nectar of immortality) and possess healing properties. Devotees often spend time under its rays and consume food, like kheer, that has been exposed to the moonlight, believing it absorbs these beneficial energies.

Is there a specific food prepared for Sharad Purnima?

Yes, kheer, a sweet rice pudding, is a traditional and highly significant dish prepared for Sharad Purnima. It is often left under the moonlight overnight before being consumed, believed to be infused with the moon's beneficial energies.