Tue Oct 15 14:43:48 UTC 2024: ## Sharad Purnima 2024: Celebrate the Festival of Abundance on October 16th
**Mumbai, October 14, 2024:** This year’s Sharad Purnima, the harvest moon festival, falls on October 16th, with the full moon’s auspicious time commencing at 8:40 PM and lasting until 4:55 PM on October 17th.
According to religious beliefs, Lord Krishna is said to have danced with the Gopis on this night, leading to Sharad Purnima also being known as “Ras Purnima.” This year, the moonrise will be at 5:05 PM on the 16th.
Traditionally, the full moon is worshipped during the Pradosh period, believed to bring good fortune. Sharad Purnima is known for the moon’s radiant glow and the belief that Goddess Lakshmi descends upon the earth. The moonlight is considered to possess elements that benefit both the body and mind. It’s customary to eat kheer, a sweet rice pudding, under the light of this special moon.
**Rituals for the Night of Abundance:**
Sharad Purnima is a time for worshipping the moon, offering water and chanting mantras. This night is also believed to be auspicious for worshipping Goddess Lakshmi. It’s recommended to light a ghee lamp at home, chant mantras dedicated to Lakshmi and Vishnu, and perform charity according to one’s capacity.
**Things to Remember:**
Sharad Purnima emphasizes positivity and purity. It is advised to avoid tamasic foods like garlic and onions, limit black clothing, and focus on positive thoughts. Controlling anger and avoiding negativity are also important aspects of the celebration.
**Benefits of Sharad Purnima Rituals:**
Offering water to the moon and chanting mantras are believed to bring happiness, prosperity, and wealth, while removing obstacles from life.
*(Disclaimer: The above information is based on beliefs and folk tales. Gujarati Mid-day does not endorse or verify its authenticity.)*
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