Sharad Purnima, one of the most significant Hindu festivals, falls on the full moon night in the month of Ashwin, usually in October. In 2024, it will be observed on October 17th. This festival is deeply rooted in cultural, spiritual, and religious practices, and one of the most well-known traditions is the preparation and consumption of kheer (a rice pudding). But why is kheer so important on Sharad Purnima, and what can devotees do to seek the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity?
To understand the essence of kheer and its significance during Sharad Purnima, we need to explore the festival’s roots, its connection with the moon, and the spiritual practices that have been followed for generations.
The Significance of Sharad Purnima
Sharad Purnima is a festival celebrated with immense joy and devotion in various parts of India. It marks the end of the monsoon and the beginning of the harvest season. The night of Sharad Purnima is believed to be the brightest of the year as the moon shines with all its brilliance. According to Hindu mythology, on this night, the moon is closest to the earth, and it showers amrit (divine nectar) on those who stay awake and offer prayers.
The full moon on Sharad Purnima is also considered highly auspicious, and it is believed that Lord Krishna performed the Maha Raas Leela (a divine dance) with the Gopis (milkmaids) on this night. This celestial dance is said to symbolize the union of the soul with the divine, and it is celebrated with great enthusiasm in places like Vrindavan and Mathura, which are associated with Lord Krishna.
Sharad Purnima is also called Kojagari Purnima in some regions, particularly in Bengal. The word Kojagari is derived from “Ko Jagarti”, meaning “Who is awake?” It is said that Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, descends to earth on this night and blesses those who are awake and devoted to her. Many devotees stay awake throughout the night, performing pujas (prayers), chanting mantras, and engaging in devotional songs to seek her blessings.
Why Is Kheer Important on Sharad Purnima?
One of the most beloved traditions during Sharad Purnima is the preparation of kheer, a sweet dish made of rice, milk, and sugar. But why is this particular dish given so much importance?
The Mythological Connection
According to Hindu mythology, on the night of Sharad Purnima, the moonlight is believed to have healing and nourishing properties. It is said that the rays of the moon on this night are filled with amrit, a nectar that grants health, wealth, and longevity. Kheer, made with rice and milk, is placed under the open sky, allowing it to absorb the moonlight and thus become infused with the moon’s divine energy.
In some regions, it is believed that Lord Krishna himself enjoyed kheer on this auspicious night, which adds to the sanctity of this dish.
Scientific Perspective
From a more scientific perspective, the tradition of making kheer on Sharad Purnima can also be seen as a way of preparing a nutritious meal. Kheer is made from ingredients like rice and milk, which are rich in essential nutrients. The process of placing kheer under the moonlight is symbolic, but the consumption of this dish helps to nourish the body, especially after the monsoon season, when immunity can be low.
Moreover, in traditional Indian households, Ayurveda plays a significant role, and many believe that the combination of ingredients in kheer is beneficial for digestion and overall well-being.
Spiritual Practices to Please Goddess Lakshmi
Sharad Purnima is not just about food and celebrations; it is also a day dedicated to spiritual practices. The primary deity worshipped on this day is Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, prosperity, and good fortune. Many devotees perform special rituals and pujas to seek her blessings, and there are certain things you can do to make your prayers more effective.
Lakshmi Puja
One of the most important rituals on Sharad Purnima is the Lakshmi Puja. Devotees clean their homes and decorate their altars with flowers, lamps, and other auspicious items. The belief is that Goddess Lakshmi only visits clean and well-maintained homes, so special attention is given to cleanliness and decoration.
During the puja, devotees chant Lakshmi mantras and offer prasads (offerings), which often include kheer. Lighting a lamp with ghee (clarified butter) is considered highly auspicious, and it is believed that this attracts positive energy and prosperity.
Staying Awake Throughout the Night
As mentioned earlier, Sharad Purnima is also known as Kojagari Purnima. The night is dedicated to staying awake and performing devotional activities. It is said that Goddess Lakshmi roams the earth on this night, asking, “Who is awake?” Those who remain awake, chanting her name and engaging in prayers, are believed to receive her blessings.
Devotees often engage in bhajans (devotional songs), recitation of Lakshmi Stotra, and other religious activities throughout the night. The idea is to remain spiritually awake and connected to the divine.
Offering Kheer to the Moon
Another significant practice on Sharad Purnima is offering kheer to the moon. As the moon is believed to shower amrit on the earth, devotees prepare kheer and place it under the moonlight to absorb the moon’s divine energy. After performing this ritual, the kheer is distributed among family members and devotees as prasadam (blessed food).
Offering kheer to the moon is not just about following tradition; it is also a way of expressing gratitude for the abundance and prosperity in life. The moon is considered a symbol of fertility and growth, and by offering kheer, devotees seek the moon’s blessings for a prosperous life.
Other Rituals and Traditions on Sharad Purnima
Apart from the major rituals like Lakshmi Puja and offering kheer to the moon, there are other customs and traditions associated with Sharad Purnima. These vary from region to region but are all aimed at seeking divine blessings and ensuring good fortune for the coming year.
Fasting
Many devotees observe a fast on Sharad Purnima, abstaining from food until the moon rises. Some people consume only fruits and milk during the day, while others fast completely. Fasting is seen as a way of purifying the body and mind, making it easier to connect with the divine.
Taking a Dip in Holy Water
In some regions, it is customary to take a dip in a holy river or lake on the day of Sharad Purnima. This is believed to cleanse the soul and remove negative energies. Bathing in sacred waters on this auspicious day is said to bring good health and longevity.
Conclusion
Sharad Purnima is a festival filled with spiritual significance, rich traditions, and deep devotion. The importance of kheer on this day goes beyond just being a sweet dish—it is a symbol of nourishment, both physical and spiritual. As the moon shines its brightest on this night, devotees offer their prayers, seek blessings from Goddess Lakshmi, and partake in rituals that have been passed down for generations. Whether it’s the Lakshmi Puja, staying awake through the night, or offering kheer to the moon, these customs are a way for devotees to connect with the divine and invite prosperity, health, and happiness into their lives.