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Sharad Purnima 2024
Sharad Purnima 2024: Date, Time, Rituals, and Significance
Introduction
Sharad Purnima, also known as Kojagiri Purnima, is a significant festival celebrated in India and Nepal. It falls on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Ashwin, which typically occurs in October or November.
Date and Time of Sharad Purnima 2024
In 2024, Sharad Purnima will be celebrated on Wednesday, October 23rd.
The exact time of the full moon, as per the Indian Standard Time (IST), is 23:35 PM (IST).
Rituals and Observances
Sharad Purnima is associated with several rituals and observances, including:
1. Lakshmi Puja
On Sharad Purnima, devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. They offer prayers, flowers, and sweets to seek her blessings.
2. Kojagiri Puja
Kojagiri Puja is a specific ritual performed on Sharad Purnima. It involves offering prayers to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, along with other deities, to receive their blessings for a happy and prosperous life.
3. Moon Gazing
Sharad Purnima is known for its bright and beautiful full moon. People often spend time gazing at the moon, seeking its blessings for health, happiness, and prosperity.
4. Vrat (Fasting)
Some devotees observe a fast (vrat) on Sharad Purnima. They eat only fruits and vegetables throughout the day and break their fast after offering prayers to the moon.
Significance of Sharad Purnima
Sharad Purnima holds great significance in Hindu tradition and is believed to bring numerous benefits, including:
1. Spiritual Growth
The full moon during Sharad Purnima is considered to be spiritually potent. It is believed that meditation and spiritual practices performed on this day yield greater results.
2. Blessing of Goddess Lakshmi
Sharad Purnima is associated with Goddess Lakshmi, and devotees believe that worshipping her on this day brings wealth, prosperity, and good fortune.
3. Health and Well-being
The moonlight on Sharad Purnima is believed to have healing properties. People often expose themselves to the moonlight to promote general health and well-being.
Conclusion
Sharad Purnima 2024 is a significant festival that holds cultural and religious importance in India and Nepal. By observing the rituals and traditions associated with this day, devotees seek blessings for wealth, prosperity, health, and happiness.