Significance of Sharad Purnima 2025: Keeping Kheer Under the Sky for Health Benefits | Image: Freepik
According to the Hindu lunar calendar, the festival of Sharad Purnima is celebrated on the full moon day of the month of Ashwin each year. This day is considered particularly auspicious and sacred. In 2025, Sharad Purnima falls on Monday, October 6. The full moon will commence at 12:23 PM on October 6 and will continue until 9:16 AM on October 7, with the moonrise expected around 5:27 PM.
One of the most significant traditions associated with this day is the preparation of kheer, a sweet rice pudding, which is then placed under the open sky. This custom has been followed for generations. Let us explore the significance of this ritual and the religious beliefs tied to it.
The Importance of Placing Kheer Under the Sky on Sharad Purnima Night
According to celebrity astrologer Pradyuman Suri, on the night of Sharad Purnima, the moon is said to be at its fullest, embodying all sixteen of its phases. It is believed that on this night, nectar rains down from the moon. Therefore, people prepare kheer and place it under the open sky, allowing moonlight to bathe the dish.
After waking up and taking a bath the next morning, individuals consume this kheer. It is widely believed that doing so enhances the body’s ability to combat diseases, calms the mind, and eliminates various ailments and impurities.
Why is This Day Considered Most Auspicious?
On the night of Sharad Purnima, special prayers are offered to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. If an individual sincerely engages in worship and fasting on this day, it is believed they will receive blessings of wealth, prosperity, and mental peace.
This occasion is also referred to as Kojagari Vrat or Kaumudi Vrat. The term “Kojagari” translates to “who is awake?” It is said that Goddess Lakshmi roams the skies on this night, and those who remain awake to pray and meditate receive her special blessings.
Timing for Special Prayers on Sharad Purnima
The auspicious window for worship during Sharad Purnima is from 11:42 PM to 12:32 AM. The moon will rise at 5:05 PM, and the time for offering arghya, or water, will be after 8:41 PM.
Offering arghya to the moon during this time is considered highly beneficial. It is suggested to fill a copper vessel with water, rice, and flowers, and present it to the moon while reciting moon-related mantras. This practice is believed to eliminate financial difficulties and foster peace and prosperity in the home.
The Significance of Charity
Performing acts of charity and service on Sharad Purnima is said to yield manifold rewards. Offering food, clothing, or monetary donations to those in need is believed to accumulate merit and bring prosperity into one’s life.
The night of Sharad Purnima is regarded as beneficial not only from a spiritual perspective but also from a scientific standpoint. The kheer placed in moonlight absorbs vital elements that provide energy and protect the body from ailments.
For further reading: When will the Kojagari Purnima Vrat be observed? Discover the auspicious timing and its significance.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is based on various sources and beliefs. REPUBLIC BHARAT does not guarantee the accuracy or authenticity of any information presented in this article.
