Sharad Purnima 2024 Date: Is it on October 16 or 17? Check Puja Vidhi, rituals, and more

Sharad Purnima, an important full moon day in the Hindu calendar, is marked by deep devotion and spiritual significance. This year, it will be observed on Wednesday, October 16, 2024. This festival holds a unique place in Hindu tradition, as it is believed to be the only day when the moon shines in its complete form, showcasing all sixteen Kala (phases). It is said that Lord Krishna, the complete incarnation of Lord Vishnu, was born with all sixteen Kala, while Lord Rama was born with twelve.

Key Dates and Timings
Sharad Purnima: Wednesday, October 16, 2024
Moonrise on Sharad Purnima Day: 05:06 PM
Purnima Tithi Begins: 08:40 PM on October 16, 2024
Purnima Tithi Ends: 04:55 PM on October 17, 2024

Significance of Sharad Purnima

This festival is closely associated with the worship of Chandra, the Moon God. Traditionally, newlywed women who commit to observing the Purnimasi fast throughout the year begin their fasts on this auspicious day. In Gujarat, the festival is affectionately known as Sharad Poonam.

The moon's rays are believed to possess healing properties that can nurture both the body and the soul. A popular custom is to prepare a sweet dish known as Rice Kheer (made from cow’s milk, rice, and sugar) and leave it under the moonlight overnight. This kheer, energized by the moon’s glow, is consumed the following morning as prasad (blessed food) and shared among family members.

In the Brij region, Sharad Purnima is also referred to as Raas Purnima, commemorating the night Lord Krishna performed the divine dance of love, known as Maha-Raas. According to mythology, enchanted by Krishna's flute, the Gopis (female devotees) left their homes to join him in the forests of Vrindavan, where they danced throughout the night. Krishna is said to have created multiple forms of himself to accompany each Gopi. Legend has it that Krishna extended the night to last as long as one night of Lord Brahma, equivalent to billions of human years.

Kojagara Vrat and Rituals
The Kojagara Vrat is an essential aspect of Sharad Purnima. Here are the main rituals observed on this day:

Fasting: Devotees typically observe a day-long fast, refraining from food and water until moonrise. This fast is believed to cleanse the mind, body, and soul, preparing devotees to receive the Moon God’s blessings.
Moon Worship: The worship of Chandra is integral to the rituals. Offerings such as fruits, sweets, and rice are made during the puja (worship).
Preparation of Rice Kheer: The preparation of Rice Kheer using cow’s milk, rice, and sugar is a significant tradition. It is left to absorb the moon’s rays overnight.
Kheer as Prasad: The next morning, the moon-blessed kheer is shared among family members as prasad, believed to have nourishing and healing properties.
Staying Awake: Devotees often stay awake throughout the night, particularly during the Kojagara Vrat, to welcome the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, praying for wealth and prosperity.
Chanting and Prayers: Mantras and hymns dedicated to Lord Krishna and Chandra are chanted. Devotees offer prayers for health, wealth, and happiness.
Special Puja: A special puja is conducted in the evening, particularly in regions observing Kojagara Vrat, with prayers to Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity and good fortune.