Sharad Purnima is one of the most revered festivals in Hindu tradition, celebrated on the full moon night of the Ashwin month, marking the end of the monsoon and the arrival of clear, bright skies. This festival holds immense spiritual significance as it is believed that on this night, the moon is at its brightest on this day and showers divine nectar (Amrit) onto the Earth.
This is why the night is also called Kojagari Purnima, meaning the night of awakening, during which devotees stay awake, praying for prosperity and well-being, especially to Goddess Lakshmi. The full moon on this day symbolizes completeness and abundance, attracting devotees from across the country to observe special rituals.
Sharad Purnima 2024: Date and Auspicious Time
This year, Sharad Purnima will be celebrated on October 16, 2024. The Purnima Tithi (full moon) will begin on October 16 at 8:41 PM and will end on October 17 at 4:53 PM. The full moonrise will be at 5:04 PM on October 16, making it the perfect night to celebrate Sharad Purnima.
शरच्चन्द्रप्रभासं लसत्किरणमण्डलम्।
शरद् पूर्णिमायुक्तं वन्दे लक्ष्मीविष्णुशासनम्॥
Meaning:
“I bow to the divine radiance of the Sharad full moon, surrounded by its bright rays, and seek the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu on this auspicious night.”
The Spiritual Importance of Sharad Purnima
Sharad Purnima is not just a festival of the full moon; it is a day to seek divine blessings for prosperity, health, and happiness. According to traditional beliefs, fasting on this day and offering prayers to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi brings lifelong benefits. It is also customary to prepare kheer (sweet rice pudding) and leave it under the open sky, as it is believed that the moon rays on this night imbue the food with healing and enriching properties. Many families observe fasts and perform Lakshmi Puja, believing that staying awake during this auspicious night ensures blessings of wealth and prosperity throughout the year. The festival is also seen as a time to overcome past difficulties and start anew, filled with abundance and hope.
The Importance of Donation
Donation holds a significant place in Sanatan Dharma (Hindu tradition). It is said that giving is the path to attaining salvation. People donate to seek peace of mind, fulfillment of desires, spiritual merit, and relief from planetary afflictions, while also gaining the blessings of the gods. The importance of charity is further elevated in Hinduism due to the belief that donations benefit not only the present life but also the afterlife. When the soul is judged by Dharma Raj (the god of death), the merit of the charities made during one’s life is what supports the soul’s journey. However, the full reward of charity is only realized when it is done at the right time, in the right way, and with a pure heart.
In many texts of Hinduism, there is a detailed mention of giving charity and the benefits received from it. It is said in Kurma Purana-
स्वर्गायुर्भूतिकामेन तथा पापोपशान्तये।
(Swargayurbhootikamen and Papopashantaye)
मुमुक्षुणा च दातव्यं ब्राह्मणेभ्यस्तथाअवहम्।।
Mumukshuṇa ca datavyam brahminebhyasthāvaham.
Things to Donate on Sharad Purnima
Sharad Purnima is a day of great spiritual importance, and charity is believed to bring immense blessings, especially when food and grains are offered. Narayan Seva Sansthan encourages you to join their initiative by donating meals to underprivileged and differently-abled children. Your contribution can bring hope and transform lives, spreading light where it is needed most.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: When is Sharad Purnima in 2024?
A: Sharad Purnima will be celebrated on October 16, 2024.
Q: Which God is dedicated to Sharad Purnima?
A: Sharad Purnima is primarily dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth, prosperity, and abundance.
Q: What things should be donated on the day of Sharad Purnima?
A: On the auspicious occasion of Sharad Purnima, grains, food, fruits etc. should be donated.
Q: Who should we donate to on Sharad Purnima?
A: On this day, it is recommended to donate to Brahmins, as well as to the poor, needy, and underprivileged individuals.
Q: What is special about Sharad Purnima?
A: Sharad Purnima is celebrated for its bright full moon and is dedicated to worshiping Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity.
Q: What is the importance of the Sharad Purnima moon?
A: The Sharad Purnima moon is believed to have healing properties that enhance well-being and bring blessings.
