Ashadha Purnima 2024 : know about Date, Time, Significance and Importance of Charity

In Hindu tradition, the full moon day (Purnima) of each month is celebrated the day after the fourteenth day of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon). The full moon in the month of Ashadha is known as Ashadha Purnima. On this day, the moon appears in its full glory in the sky, casting a beautiful moonlit glow over the earth. The worship of Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe, is considered particularly auspicious on this day. Devotees bathe in the sacred waters of the Ganges River and offer charity to the poor and needy. Scriptures emphasize the importance of meditation, penance, and charity on this day. Sincerely worshiping the Lord and giving to the less fortunate are believed to cleanse one’s sins and bring new energy to life. Ashadha Purnima is also known as Guru Purnima, and it is a day to honor one’s spiritual teacher (guru) and pledge to follow their teachings.

Ashadha Purnima 2024: Date and Auspicious Timing

In 2024, the auspicious timing for Ashadha Purnima begins on Saturday, July 20th at 5:59 PM and ends on Sunday, July 21st at 3:46 PM. According to Hindu beliefs, the festival will be observed on July 21st, the day of the moonrise.

Significance of Ashadha Purnima

Ashadha Purnima is believed to bring happiness, peace, and prosperity to the home. Along with performing meditation, penance, and charity, worshiping Lord Satyanarayana on this day is considered highly beneficial. Devotees visit temples to worship Lord Vishnu, organize feasts, and distribute prasadam (sacred food) to the poor and needy. Honoring one’s guru and expressing gratitude towards them are also key activities on this day. The festive atmosphere pervades throughout the country as people exchange greetings and celebrate together.

Importance of Charity on Ashadha Purnima

Charity holds great importance in Hinduism. Scriptures state that charity is the one thing that can absolve a person of their sins. When a person departs from this world, all their possessions remain behind, but the merit earned through charity accompanies them to the afterlife. Therefore, it is essential to give according to one’s capacity while alive. The Kurma Purana emphasizes the importance of charity as follows:

Items to Donate on Ashadha Purnima

Like other festivals, charity holds special significance on Ashadha Purnima. It is said that donating food and grains is the most meritorious act on this auspicious day. Hence, on the sacred occasion of Ashadha Purnima, contribute to feeding the poor, needy, and differently-abled children through organizations like Narayan Seva Sansthan to earn good karma.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: When is Ashadha Purnima in 2024? 

A: Ashadha Purnima is on July 21, 2024.

Q: To whom should charity be given on Ashadha Purnima?

A: Charity should be given to Brahmins as well as the poor and needy.

Q: What items should be donated on Ashadha Purnima?  

A: On the auspicious occasion of Ashadha Purnima, food, grains, and fruits should be donated.