Patna: Sharad Purnima, one of the most auspicious nights in the Hindu calendar, falls this year on October 6. Celebrated for its full moon, which is believed to encompass all 16 lunar phases, the festival is associated with blessings, prosperity, and charitable giving. Devotees traditionally prepare kheer (rice pudding) and leave it under the moonlight to absorb its rays before consuming it the following day.
Observances on Sharad Purnima often involve worship of the moon and Goddess Lakshmi, the Hindu deity of wealth. Astrologers suggest that performing rituals on this day strengthens the Moon’s position in the horoscope and enhances spiritual and material benefits. Charity is considered particularly potent during the festival, with donations thought to yield lasting results.
Experts advise that devotees can tailor their charitable acts according to their zodiac sign:
- Aries: Milk and rice donations, along with offering milk and honey to the Shivalinga, are auspicious.
- Taurus: Kheer prepared and given to the needy, as well as silver donations, are recommended.
- Gemini: Donations of green mung beans and green clothing, and worship of Tulsi plants, are considered beneficial.
- Cancer: Providing fodder to cows and offering a mixture of milk and water to the moon in the evening brings blessings.
- Leo: Clothes and food for the poor are auspicious contributions.
- Virgo: Mung beans, green clothing, and Tulsi leaves can be donated to please Goddess Lakshmi.
- Libra: Worship of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu, along with donations of yogurt and white clothing, is encouraged.
- Scorpio: Performing the Shivalinga Abhisheka with honey, milk, and water while chanting Om Namah Shivaya is believed to mitigate lunar defects.
- Sagittarius: Yellow clothing and saffron-based kheer are recommended donations.
- Capricorn: Worship of Lord Shiva, water offerings to the Peepal tree, and chanting Chandra mantras are advised.
- Aquarius: Kheer donations and Abhisheka of the Shivalinga with white sandalwood water are suggested to strengthen the Moon’s influence.
- Pisces: Milk or milk-based sweets, along with silver, are considered auspicious.
Sharad Purnima continues to be celebrated across India with a combination of devotion, charity, and cultural traditions that highlight the spiritual significance of the full moon.
