Chaitra Purnima, the first full moon of the year, is celebrated as a very holy and special day in Hinduism. This day not only symbolizes the fullness of the moon, but the spiritual, religious and cultural significance of this day is also very huge. The full moon date of Chaitra month is not only related to Shri Hanuman Janmotsav, but it is also considered very auspicious for the accomplishment of all virtuous deeds like charity, bathing, chanting and fasting. This date is a golden opportunity for self-purification, sadhana and devotion to God.
When is Chaitra Purnima 2025?
This year the date of Chaitra Purnima will start from 3:21 am on April 12 and it will be effective till 5:51 am on April 13. According to the rule of Udayatithi, the fast, bath and donation of Chaitra Purnima will be done on April 12.
Mythological significance of Chaitra Purnima
It is mentioned in religious texts that Chaitra month is related to Brahma ji. That is why the fruits of all the pious deeds done in this month are multiplied. The appearance day of Shri Hanuman ji is also celebrated on the full moon day of Chaitra month. The words also appear in ‘Hanuman Chalisa’ composed by Goswami Tulsidas ji –
Charon Jug Pratap Tumhara, Hai Prasiddh Jagat Ujiyara.
Shri Hanuman ji is the awakened deity of Kaliyug, and the day of Chaitra Purnima is the ultimate opportunity to offer devotion to his feet.
Apart from this, this day is also considered best for the worship of Lord Vishnu, Satyanarayan Vrat Katha and Mahalakshmi Pujan. To get the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, devotees observe fast on this day as per the rituals, read the story of Lord Satyanarayan and donate lamps at night.
Significance of Chaitra Purnima
The moon is in its full beauty on Chaitra Purnima. According to astrology, this day is very fruitful for worshiping God and mental purification. The moon is the factor of our mind, emotions and heart. Therefore, worshipping the moon on this day brings mental balance, happiness and good fortune.
The fasts and penance done on this day are considered to be especially fruitful. Take a pledge to fast by bathing in holy rivers before sunrise in the morning. At night, worship the full moon by offering Arghya.
According to Skanda Purana, “Pious deeds done on the full moon day, especially on the full moon of Chaitra month, give fruits equal to hundred yagyas.”
The Glory of Donation
There is a tradition of donating on Chaitra Purnima. By donating grains, food etc. on this day, the sins of many births are destroyed. On this day, feeding the needy, arranging wells or drinking water, or serving the patients is considered to be especially virtuous.
There is a religious belief that –
Daanam Dharmasya Lakshanam.
(दानं धर्मस्य लक्षणम्।)
That is, donation is the main characteristic of religion. Therefore, every donation made on Chaitra Purnima purifies the soul and opens the door to God’s grace.
The glory of donation is described in various texts of the Sanatan tradition. It is said in the scriptures-
Alpampi Kshitau Kshiptam Vatbeejam Pravardhate.
(अल्पमपि क्षितौ क्षिप्तं वटबीजं प्रवर्धते ।)
Jalyogaat Yatha Daanaat Punya Vrikshapi Vardhate.
(जलयोगात् यथा दानात् पुण्यवृक्षोऽपि वर्धते ॥)
Just as a small seed of a banyan tree planted on the ground grows with the help of water, similarly a tree of virtue also grows with donation.
Hanuman Janmotsav
Hanuman Ji was born on the day of Chaitra Purnima. That is why this day is also celebrated with devotion as Hanuman Janmotsav. Special worship of Hanuman Ji is done in temples, bhajan evening, Sunderkand recitation, and distribution of prasad is organized. Devotees keep fast on this day, recite Hanuman Chalisa and Bajrang Baan, and offer their problems and sorrows at his feet. This day not only fills the devotees with energy and devotion, but it also inspires them to fight the difficulties in life.
Chaitra Purnima is a resolution for self-purification, connection with the divine and human service. This day reminds us that religion, charity and devotion in life are the paths to true happiness and peace.
On this auspicious occasion, give place to devotion to God, introspection and public service in your life. Just like the moon is full on this day, let our mind also be full of devotion, compassion and light.
