Sharad Purnima, one of the most significant Hindu festivals, is celebrated in the month of Ashwin (September/October). Also known as Kumara Purnima, Kojagiri Purnima, Navanna Purnima, Ashwin Purnima, or Kaumudi Purnima, this festival marks the enchanting brightness of the full moon, bringing joy and delight. The term “Sharad” signifies the “Sharad Ritu” or autumn season. In various Indian states, Sharad Purnima is also observed as a harvest festival.

On this auspicious day, devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Shiva. According to legend, Goddess Lakshmi roams from place to place on this night, asking “Kojagiri” or “Who is awake?” and blessing those who remain awake. As a result, devotees observe the night with deep devotion, fasting, singing religious hymns, and praying for prosperity. This year, Sharad Purnima will be celebrated on Monday, October 6, 2025.                                                                  

Sharad Purnima 2025 Puja Details

• Sharad Purnima Date: 6 October 2025, Monday
• Purnima Tithi Begins: 12:23 PM on Oct 06, 2025
• Purnima Tithi Ends: 09:16 AM on Oct 07, 2025
• Moonrise on Sharad Purnima Day: 05:33 PM

Sharad Purnima Rituals

• Women fast and prepare rice kheer as bhog for Goddess Lakshmi.
• Kheer is kept under moonlight, believed to have healing properties, and shared as prasad.
• Devotees stay awake, performing spiritual practices for blessings.
• Holy dips in sacred rivers, meditation, and worship are common.
• Helping the poor is encouraged, symbolizing divine blessings.

Sharad Purnima Vrat Katha

According to Hindu mythology, a villager had three daughters who observed full moon fasts. However, the youngest daughter only fasted for half a day. As a result of her incomplete devotion, her son passed away. Seeking solace, she called her elder sister, who comforted her and touched the boy, bringing him back to life. Amazed, the youngest daughter attributed the miracle to her sister’s devotion, highlighting the significance of Kojagiri Purnima.

In the Brij region, Sharad Purnima is celebrated as Raas Purnima. It is believed that Lord Krishna performed the Maha-Raas with his Gopis on this auspicious night. Enchanted by the sound of Krishna’s flute, the Gopis left their homes to join him in an all-night divine dance, symbolizing love and devotion.

Importance of Sharad Purnima

According to Vedic astrology, the Moon is believed to govern both the mind and water—two vital elements of life. On Sharad Purnima, the Moon shines exceptionally bright, naturally influencing the tides and causing fluctuations in the sea. This unique lunar effect also impacts the water element within our bodies, creating a positive influence on everyone. Performing rituals like Vedic Chandra Puja and offering milk and water to the Shivling on this auspicious day is said to attract positivity and bring beneficial outcomes.

Significance of Sharad Purnima

On the day of Sharad Purnima, it is considered very important to worship God Chandra. Unmarried women fast in the hope of finding a suitable groom, and newlywed women take the pledge and begin their Purnima fasting on this day. As per Hindu Mythology, each human quality is connected with a different Kala. As per the beliefs, the combination of sixteen different Kala produces the ideal human personality. Lord Krishna was said to be born with all the sixteen Kalas.

Sharad Purnima is also referred to as Raas Purnima in the Brij region. On this day, Lord Krishna is believed to have performed Maha-Raas, or divine love dance. The angelic dance of Lord Krishna with the Gopis of Vrindavan is also said to have lasted one night of Lord Brahma, which was equal to billions of human years. Also, it is believed that Goddess Lakshmi visits the world on the night of Sharad Purnima. Hence, on the day of Sharad Purnima, worshippers also worship Goddess Lakshmi and receive her blessings. Let’s now see what are the rituals followed on this auspicious day of Sharad Purnima.

Importance of Keep Kheer in Moonlight

The significance of kheer under moonlight on Sharad Purnima lies in the belief that the Moon’s light carries healing and nourishing properties, often referred to as nectar or elixir. On this auspicious night, devotees prepare rice kheer and place it under the moonlight to absorb these divine energies. This ritual is said to enhance the kheer’s healing qualities and spiritual essence. The energised kheer is then distributed as prasad the next morning, symbolizing blessings, health, and prosperity for the family.

FAQ’s

What is special about Sharad Purnima?

Sharad Purnima marks the brightest full moon night of the year, celebrated for its spiritual significance, lunar healing properties, and traditional rituals, including offering kheer to the Moon.

Which God is dedicated to Sharad Purnima?

Sharad Purnima is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Shiva. Devotees worship them for blessings of prosperity, health, and spiritual awakening.

Why do we drink milk on Sharad Purnima?

Milk is considered pure and is believed to gain healing properties when kept under the moonlight on Sharad Purnima. Drinking this milk is thought to promote good health and energy.