- By Kashish Rai
- Sun, 18 Aug 2024 06:35 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Narali Purnima 2024: Narali Purnima, also known as Coconut Day, is a significant festival predominantly observed by Hindus in India's western coastal regions. Falling on the full moon day of Shravana in the Hindu calendar, it is fervently celebrated in Maharashtra and the Konkani areas. This occasion holds particular importance for the fishing community, who mark Narali Purnima to seek protection from adverse events while at sea. With great enthusiasm and devotion, devotees honour the day, often by offering coconuts to the ocean, symbolising gratitude and seeking blessings for safe passage. It's a cherished tradition that underscores the community's deep connection with the sea. This year, Narali Purnima will be observed on 19th August 2024.
Narali Purnima 2024: Date And Time
Narali Purnima 2024 Date: 19th August 2024
Purnima Tithi Begins: 03:04 AM, 19th August 2024
Purnima Tithi Ends: 11:55 PM, 19th August 2024
Narali Purnima 2024: Significance Of This Sacred Festival
The term 'Narali Purnima' originates from 'Naral', meaning coconut, and 'Purnima', signifying full moon day, highlighting the coconut's significance on this occasion. This principal religious festival is celebrated along India's coastal regions, holding particular importance for the fishing community in Maharashtra, Goa, and Gujarat. Narali Purnima marks the commencement of the fishing season, with fishermen generously offering tributes to Lord Varun, seeking his blessings for a bountiful catch. This festival foretells a prosperous year ahead, filled with joy, happiness, and wealth, making it a momentous celebration for the community.
Narali Purnima is celebrated with enthusiasm in Maharashtra and Konkani regions, mainly by fishermen, to seek safe sea voyages and protection from adverse incidents. (Image Source: Canva)
Narali Purnima 2024: Rituals Associated With This Sacred Festival
On Narali Purnima, Hindu devotees pay homage to Lord Varun, the Sea God, by offering a coconut as a symbol of reverence. By diligently performing puja rituals, they seek protection from maritime dangers, with Upnayan and Yagyopaweet rituals being prominent practices. Although the month of Shravana is dedicated to Lord Shiva, Narali Purnima also honours the three-eyed Lord, symbolised by the coconut's three "eyes." Devotees offer prayers to Shiva, seeking his blessings.
In Maharashtra, Brahmins observe Shravani Upakarma fast, consuming only coconut, and engage in phalahar vrat, abstaining from grains. This gesture demonstrates their devotion and gratitude. As a token of appreciation for Mother Nature, coconut trees are planted along the coast, promoting environmental harmony.
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Following puja rituals, fishermen embark on a short journey in their ornately decorated boats, returning to the shore to revel in festivities featuring vibrant dancing and singing. To commemorate the occasion, a special sweet dish made from coconut is prepared and shared among family members after offering it to the Lord. Coconut-based dishes are the staple food of the day, with fishermen indulging in various coconut delicacies.
(Disclaimer: This is based on general public information. Jagran English does not confirm its veracity. Before adopting any measures, consult an expert in the relevant field.)