Sharad Purnima, also known as Kojagiri Purnima or Kaumudi celebration, is one of the most significant and spiritually charged festivals in the Hindu calendar. Celebrated on the full moon night in the Hindu month of Ashwin (usually in September or October), this festival marks the end of the monsoon season and the onset of the harvest season. It is a night when the moon shines the brightest, and the air is filled with divine energy and positivity.
### **The Significance of Sharad Purnima**
The night of Sharad Purnima holds a special place in Hindu mythology and culture. It is believed that on this night, the moon comes closest to the Earth and radiates its healing and spiritual energy. According to ancient scriptures, the moon showers its cool and divine nectar (also called ‘Amrit’) upon the Earth, which has a powerful impact on health, well-being, and spirituality.
Sharad Purnima is also associated with the goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. Devotees believe that staying awake through the night and worshipping Goddess Lakshmi can bring blessings of abundance and prosperity. The festival is also referred to as “Kojagiri Purnima,” derived from the Sanskrit words “Ko Jagarti,” meaning “Who is awake?” It is said that Goddess Lakshmi visits Earth on this night, blessing those who remain awake and seek her grace.
### **The Legend of Radha and Krishna**
One of the most popular stories associated with Sharad Purnima is the divine love story of Radha and Lord Krishna. According to legend, on the night of Sharad Purnima, Lord Krishna performed the ‘Maha Raas’ (divine dance) with Radha and the Gopis (cowherd maidens) in the forests of Vrindavan. It is believed that Lord Krishna multiplied himself to dance with each Gopi, symbolizing his infinite love for his devotees. This night is considered the pinnacle of divine love and devotion, and it holds a deep spiritual significance for devotees of Krishna.
### **Rituals and Celebrations**
Sharad Purnima is celebrated with various rituals and traditions across India:
1. **Offering Kheer (Sweet Porridge)**: A popular tradition on this night is preparing kheer, a sweet dish made of milk, rice, and sugar. Devotees place the kheer under the moonlight, believing that the moon’s rays infuse it with divine blessings. The kheer is then consumed as ‘prasad’ (blessed food) the next day, which is believed to enhance health and longevity.
2. **Staying Awake All Night**: Devotees stay awake throughout the night, engaging in prayers, singing devotional songs, and chanting mantras. They believe that Goddess Lakshmi blesses those who remain vigilant and worship her during the night.
3. **Cultural Performances and Raas Leela**: In many parts of India, especially in Mathura and Vrindavan, the night is marked with Raas Leela performances, depicting the divine dance of Lord Krishna and the Gopis. Devotees participate in singing bhajans (devotional songs) and performing traditional dances, celebrating the eternal love of Radha and Krishna.
4. **Observing Fast**: Many devotees observe a fast on Sharad Purnima, consuming only fruits and milk. The fast is believed to purify the mind, body, and soul, allowing devotees to absorb the positive energy radiated by the moon.
### **Health Benefits of Sharad Purnima**
Sharad Purnima is not just a spiritual celebration but also a night with significant health benefits. According to Ayurveda, the moonlight on this night is especially beneficial. It is said that spending time under the moonlight can help balance the body’s doshas (vata, pitta, and kapha) and improve overall health. The kheer kept under the moonlight is believed to absorb the moon’s energy, making it a healing and nutritious food.
### **Conclusion**
Sharad Purnima is a celebration of love, devotion, and divine blessings. It is a night when the cosmic energies are believed to be at their peak, showering the Earth with health, prosperity, and spiritual upliftment. As the bright full moon shines in the clear autumn sky, devotees come together to celebrate this celestial event, seeking blessings from Goddess Lakshmi and honoring the timeless love of Radha and Krishna.
Whether one observes the festival for its spiritual significance, cultural beauty, or health benefits, Sharad Purnima remains a night that brings people closer to the divine and to each other, basking in the glow of the brightest moon of the year.
Author: This news is edited by: Abhishek Verma, (Editor, CANON TIMES)
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