- By Kashish Rai
- Wed, 16 Oct 2024 11:06 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Sharad Purnima 2024: Kojagari Purnima and Ashwin Purnima, popularly known as Sharad Purnima hold a profound significance in Hinduism. Celebrated on the full moon night of the Ashwin month, it marks the culmination of the monsoon season and the arrival of autumn. This auspicious night is dedicated to the worship of Lord Krishna and the goddess Lakshmi. Devotees fast during the day and break their fast after the moonrise, offering prayers and worship under the radiant full moon. The night is believed to possess healing properties, with the moon's rays said to nourish the body and soul. This year, Sharad Purnima is being observed on 16th October 2024.
On the occasion of this sacred day, people must follow certain dos and don'ts. Check out the list of rules that must be followed on this day below:
Sharad Purnima 2024: Do’s And Don’ts To Follow On Kojagriri Purnima
Sharad Purnima Do’s
1. Worship Lord Krishna and Goddess Lakshmi
On Sharad Purnima, devotees worship Lord Krishna and Goddess Lakshmi to seek their blessings. Offer prayers, flowers, and sweets to the deities. Recite the Bhagavad Gita and other sacred texts to invoke Lord Krishna's divine presence. Perform a special puja, offering ghee lamps, incense, and camphor to Goddess Lakshmi, the embodiment of prosperity and good fortune. This worship reinforces devotion, spiritual growth, and material well-being.
2. Observe a Day-Long Fast (Vrat)
Observing a day-long fast on Sharad Purnima is a revered tradition. Devotees abstain from food and water, dedicating the day to spiritual pursuits. The fast cleanses the body and mind, allowing for introspection and self-reflection. Break the fast after moonrise, with a simple, satvik meal. This austerity strengthens willpower, fosters discipline, and enables spiritual rejuvenation. Pregnant women, elderly, and infirm individuals may opt for a partial fast or consume light, nutritious food.
3. Moonlight Meditation and Prayer
Sharad Purnima's full moon is believed to possess healing properties. Sit under the moonlight, meditating on the divine energies. Offer prayers, chant mantras, and recite devotional songs. Visualise the moon's rays nourishing your body, mind, and soul. This tranquil practice calms the mind, balances emotions, and connects you with the universe. As the moon reaches its peak, seek forgiveness, clarity, and guidance from the divine.
4. Donation
Sharad Purnima emphasises the importance of charity and selfless giving. Distribute food, clothes, and essentials to the needy. Offer annadan (food donation) to the poor, supporting their well-being. This act of kindness cultivates compassion, generosity, and spiritual growth. Donate to reputable charities or participate in community service initiatives, spreading love and kindness.
5. Perform Satvik Feast and Family Gatherings
After the moonrise, gather with family and friends for a satvik feast. Share traditional, vegetarian dishes, and sweets, reinforcing bonds and togetherness. This communal celebration strengthens relationships, fosters harmony, and creates lasting memories. Include children in the festivities, teaching them the significance of Sharad Purnima and Hindu values.
Sharad Purnima marks the culmination of Ashwin Month and the arrival of Kartik Maas. (Image Source: Freepik)
Sharad Purnima Don’ts
1. Refrain from Consuming Non-Vegetarian Food and Intoxicants
On Sharad Purnima, abstain from non-vegetarian food, alcohol, and intoxicants. These substances disrupt spiritual growth, clouding the mind and weakening self-control. Instead, opt for satvik, vegetarian meals, promoting purity, compassion, and self-discipline. This austerity enables devotees to connect with the divine, fostering spiritual rejuvenation and inner peace.
2. Avoid Quarrels and Unkind Speech
Sharad Purnima emphasises harmony and unity. Avoid quarrels, harsh words, and unkind speech, which disturb the peaceful atmosphere. Maintain silence or engage in devotional discussions, promoting love and understanding. This restraint cultivates emotional balance, empathy, and spiritual growth.
3. Do Not Engage in Material Pursuits and Worldly Activities
On Sharad Purnima, minimise engagement in material pursuits and worldly activities. Avoid business transactions, unnecessary travel, and mundane chores. Instead, dedicate time to spiritual practices, self-reflection, and devotion. This detachment enables devotees to focus on their inner journey, reconnect with their soul, and seek divine guidance.
4. Refrain from Criticism and Negative Thoughts
Sharad Purnima encourages positivity and spiritual growth. Avoid criticising others, harbouring negative thoughts, or entertaining malicious intentions. Instead, cultivate compassion, understanding, and forgiveness. Focus on self-improvement, introspection, and personal growth. This mental discipline fosters inner peace, clarity, and spiritual progress.
5. Avoid Sleeping During the Auspicious Moonlight Hours
On Sharad Purnima, stay awake during the moonlit hours (typically between 8 pm and 12 am) to reap the spiritual benefits. Avoid sleeping, as it symbolises spiritual lethargy and disconnection. Instead, engage in meditation, prayer, or devotional activities, harnessing the moon's divine energies. This vigilance cultivates spiritual awareness, self-discipline, and inner transformation.
(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.)